ABSTRACT
Antipsychotic drugs are dopamine receptor antagonists. The first-generation antipsychotics (e.g. chlorpromazine) and the second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics (e.g. clozapine) are discussed in relation to the pharmacodynamics (affecting the mesocortical and mesolimbic pathways differently) and side-effects, such as Parkinsonism. The first generation is divided into the aliphatics, piperidines and the piperazines. The second generation is a group of drugs with a different “hit and run” profile, and therefore they cause fewer side-effects. The pharmacokinetics of the antipsychotic drugs are discussed, and issues related to the use of these drugs (e.g. compliance, high dosage, rapid tranquilisation and diabetes risk) are highlighted.
