Neuroleptic

Neuroleptic

Neuroleptics, also known as antipsychotic drugs, are a class of medication primarily used to manage psychosis (including delusions, hallucinations, paranoia or disordered thought), principally in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They are increasingly being used in the management of non-psychotic disorders. Antipsychotics are usually effective in relieving symptoms of psychosis in the short term.

History

The term "neuroleptic" was coined by Delay and Deniker in 1955. The term is derived from the Greek: "νεῦρον" (neuron, originally meaning "sinew" but today equating to "nerve") and "λῆψις" (lepsis, "a taking hold"). Thus, the term essentially means "taking hold of the nerves".

Uses

Neuroleptics are used to treat a variety of conditions including:

• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder
• Delusional disorder
• Psychosis
• Tourette syndrome
• Huntington's disease
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Side Effects

Like all medications, neuroleptics can have side effects. These can include:

• Extrapyramidal symptoms
• Tardive dyskinesia
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• Metabolic syndrome
• Weight gain
• Diabetes mellitus
• Sexual dysfunction

See Also

• Antipsychotic
• Psychosis
• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder

References

Neuroleptic Resources
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