Chapter 22

Drug class for buspirone (Buspar)

anxiolytic miscellaneous

What are the low potency antipsychotics?

thioridazine, chlorpromazine

What antipsychotic is a good choice for children due to limited side effects?

aripiprazole (Abilify)

typical antipsychotics

"first generation" antipsychotic drugs that are now being replaced with "second generation" antipsychotic drugs. They tend to have more EPS (extrapyramidal side effects) and less sedation effects, (anticholinergic) less dry mouth, less bp problems when standing up and sitting down.

atypical antipsychotics

"second generation" antipsychotic drugs. They have less EPS (extrapyramidal side effects).

Say which condition is treated with anticholinergics

Acute dystonia

A patient w/a feeding tube will be receiving risperidone (Risperdal) 8 mg in 2 divided doses via the feeding tube. The medication is available in a 1 mg/mL solution. how many milliliters will the nurse administer for each dose?

4 mL/dose

hypertension

A 28 yo male was hospitalized 1 week ago for acute psychotic symptoms. He is taking 6mg of fluphenazine hydrochloride (prolixin) daily. He will least likely experience...EPS RXN, hypertension, sedation, hypotension?

increased

A client has been taking an antacid for 2 months. He Dr. prescribes loxapine (loxitane) for acute psychosis. The nurse understands that the doseage of Loxitane will likely be: decreased, increased?

If clozapine (Clozaril) therapy is being considered, the nurse should evaluate which laboratory test to establish a baseline for comparison in order to recognize a potentially life-threatening side effect? A. White blood cell count B. Liver function studies C. Creatinine clearance D. Blood urea nitrogen

ANS: A The nurse should establish a baseline white blood cell count to evaluate a potentially life-threatening side effect if clozapine (Clozaril) is being considering as a treatment option. Clozapine can have a serious side effect of agranulocytosis in which a potentially fatal drop in white blood cells can occur

After taking chlorpromazine (Thorazine) for 1 month, a client presents to an emergency department (ED) with severe muscle rigidity, tachycardia, and a temperature of 105oF (40.5C). The nurse expects the physician to recognize which condition and implement which treatment? A. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome and treat by discontinuing Thorazine and administering dantrolene (Dantrium) B. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome and treat by increasing Thorazine dosage and administering an antianxiety medication C. Dystonia and treat by administering trihexyphenidyl (Artane) D. Dystonia and treat by administering bromocriptine (Parlodel)

ANS: A The nurse should expect that an ED physician would diagnose the client with neuroleptic malignant syndrome and treat the client by discontinuing chlorpromazine (Thorazine) and administering dantrolene (Dantrium). Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a potentially fatal condition characterized by muscle rigidity, fever, altered consciousness, and autonomic instability. The use of typical antipsychotics is largely being replaced by atypical antipsychotics due to fewer side effects and lower risks.

What are the potential side effects of atypical antipsychotics?

Atypical have less extrapyramidal side effects than typicals (tardive dyskinesia and others). They are associated with metabolic syndrome, with obesity, hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia (Type II DM can result from use). There is also a risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome

A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is prescribed clozapine (Clozaril). Which client symptoms related to the side effects of this medication should prompt a nurse to intervene immediately? A. Sore throat, fever, and malaise B. Akathisia and hypersalivation C. Akinesia and insomnia D. Dry mouth and urinary retention

ANS: A The nurse should intervene immediately if the client experiences a sore throat, fever, and malaise when taking the atypical antipsychotic drug clozapine (Clozaril). Clozapine can have a serious side effect of agranulocytosis, in which a potentially fatal drop in white blood cells can occur. Symptoms of infectious processes would alert the nurse to this potential.

A newly admitted client has taken thioridazine (Mellaril) for 2 years with good symptom control. Symptoms exhibited on admission included paranoid delusions and hallucinations. The nurse should recognize which potential cause for the return of these symptoms? A. The client has developed tolerance to the antipsychotic medication. B. The client has not taken the medication with food. C. The client has not taken the medication as prescribed. D. The client has combined alcohol with the medication.

ANS: C Altered thinking can affect a client's insight into the necessity for taking antipsychotic medications consistently. When symptoms are no longer bothersome, clients may stop taking medications that cause

NCLEX question The nurse suspects that a patient who is experiencing facial grimacing, involuntary upward eye movement, and muscle spasms of the tongue and face may have which condition? a. akathisia b. acute dystonia c. tardive dyskinesia d. pseudoparkingsonism

b

An aging client diagnosed with chronic schizophrenia takes an antipsychotic and a beta-adrenergic blocking agent (propranolol) for hypertension. Understanding the combined side effects of these drugs, which statement by a nurse is most appropriate? A. "Make sure you concentrate on taking slow, deep, cleansing breaths." B. "Watch your diet and try to engage in some regular physical activity." C. "Rise slowly when you change position from lying to sitting or sitting to standing." D. "Wear sunscreen and try to avoid midday sun exposure."

ANS: C The most appropriate statement by the nurse is to instruct the client to rise slowly when changing positions. Antipsychotic medications and beta blockers cause a decrease in blood pressure. When given in combination, this side effect places the client at risk for developing orthostatic hypotension.

A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is slow to respond and appears to be listening to unseen others. Which medication should a nurse expect a physician to order to address this type of symptom? A. Haloperidol (Haldol) to address the negative symptom B. Clonazepam (Klonopin) to address the positive symptom C. Risperidone (Risperdal) to address the positive symptom D. Clozapine (Clozaril) to address the negative symptom

ANS: C The nurse should expect the physician to order risperidone (Risperdal) to address the positive symptoms of schizophrenia. Risperidone (Risperdal) is an atypical antipsychotic used to reduce positive symptoms, including disturbances in content of thought (delusions), form of thought (neologisms), or sensory perception (hallucinations).

A client is diagnosed with schizophrenia. A physician orders haloperidol (Haldol) 50 mg bid, benztropine (Cogentin) 1 mg prn, and zolpidem (Ambien) 10 mg HS. Which client behavior would warrant the nurse to administer benztropine? A. Tactile hallucinations B. Tardive dyskinesia C. Restlessness and muscle rigidity D. Reports of hearing disturbing voices

ANS: C The symptom of tactile hallucinations and reports of hearing disturbing voices would be addressed by an antipsychotic medication such as haloperidol. Tardive dyskinesia, a potentially irreversible condition, would warrant the discontinuation of an antipsychotic medication such as haloperidol. An anticholinergic medication such as benztropine would be used to treat the extrapyramidal symptoms of restlessness and muscle rigidity.

A client diagnosed with schizophrenia takes an antipsychotic agent daily. Which assessment finding should a nurse immediately report to the client's attending psychiatrist? A. Respirations of 22 beats/minute B. Weight gain of 8 pounds in 2 months C. Temperature of 104F (40C) D. Excessive salivation

ANS: C When assessing a client diagnosed with schizophrenia who takes an antipsychotic agent daily, the nurse should immediately address a temperature of 104F (40C). A temperature this high can be a symptom of the rare but life-threatening neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

A client diagnosed with chronic schizophrenia presents in an emergency department (ED) with uncontrollable tongue movements, stiff neck, and difficulty swallowing. The nurse would expect the physician to recognize which condition and implement which treatment? A. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome and treat by discontinuing antipsychotic medications B. Agranulocytosis and treat by administration of clozapine (Clozaril) C. Extrapyramidal symptoms and treat by administration of benztropine (Cogentin) D. Tardive dyskinesia and treat by discontinuing antipsychotic medications

ANS: D The nurse should expect that an ED physician would diagnose the client with tardive dyskinesia and discontinue antipsychotic medications. Tardive dyskinesia is a condition of abnormal involuntary movements of the mouth, tongue, trunk, and extremities that can be an irreversible side effect of typical antipsychotic medications.

During an admission assessment, a nurse notes that a client diagnosed with schizophrenia has allergies to penicillin, prochlorperazine (Compazine), and bee stings. Based on this assessment data, which antipsychotic medication would be contraindicated? A. Haloperidol (Haldol), because it is used only in elderly patients B. Clozapine (Clozaril), because of a cross-sensitivity to penicillin C. Risperidone (Risperdal), because it exacerbates symptoms of depression D. Thioridazine (Mellaril), because of cross-sensitivity among phenothiazines

ANS: D The nurse should know that thioridazine (Mellaril) would be contraindicated because of cross-sensitivity among phenothiazines. Prochlorperazine (Compazine) and thioridazine are both classified as phenothiazines.

For treating anxiety, explain why benzodiazepines are used more often than barbiturates

Benzos are considered more effective and have fewer side effects and maybe less dangerous in overdosing

clozapine (Clozaril)

an atypical antipsychotic agent that may cause life-threatening agranulocytosis.

Diabetes

Client = acute psychosis, prescribed Abilify...what should the nurse assess for before starting drug therapy? cardiac problems, seizure disorders, anemia, diabetes ?

Drug class for aripiprazole (Abilify)

antipsychotic atypical

Drug class for clozapine (Clozaril)

antipsychotic atypical

Drug class for risperidone (Risperdal)

antipsychotic atypical

How would one treat NMS?

Dopamine agonists and dantrolene (muscle relaxant) should be used to treat NMS.

List the positive symptoms of schizophrenia

Exaggeration of normal function, incoherent speech, hallucinations , delusions, and paranoia

What is neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)?

Hyperpyrexia (T>104F), extrapyramidal rigidity, ANS dysfunction, myoglobinuria, lead-pipe rigidity, and possibly death. Think "FEVER: Fever, Encephalopathy, Vitals unstable, Elevated enzymes, Rigidity of muscles"

Drug class for lorazepam (Ativan)

antipsychotic benzodiazepine

List the negative symptoms of schizophrenia

Loss of function and motivation. Simplicity of speech, blunted affect, inertia, poor self-care, and social withdrawal.

Drug class for chlorpromazine (Thorazine)

antipsychotic-typical

What are the potential side effects of olanzapine?

Significan weight gain (20-40 lbs.), can increase HbA1c and triglycerides, also has sedating effect

Explain why the liquid form might be preferred for oral use

Some pts may hide tablets in their cheek or under their tongue to avoid taking them

What is the mechanism of action of typical antipsychotics?

They all block D2 receptors

NCLEX question A patient asks the nurse to explain how antipsychotic drugs work to make him feel better. The nurse understands that antipsychotics act in which way? a. blocking actions of dopamine b. blocking actions of epinephrine c. promoting prostaglandin synthesis d. enhancing he action of gamma-aminobutyric acid

a

thioridazine (Mellaril)

a formally used drug that is now indicated only when other drugs are ineffective because of its association with serious cardiac dysrhythmias.

NCLEX question A patient is receiving aripiprazole. Which nursing interventions(s) will the nurse include in the patient's care plan? Select all that apply a. administer before meals on an empty stomach to facilitate absorption b. remain with the patient until medication is swallowed c. monitor vital signs to detect orthostatic hypertension d.assess the patient for evidence of neuroleptic malignant syndrome e. observe the patient for acute dystonia, akathisia, and tardive dyskinesia.

b c d e

What antipsychotic is associated with retinal deposits?

thioridazine

What antipsychotic is associated with corneal deposits?

chlorpromazine

positive symptoms

hallucinations, delusions, thinking disturbances

What are the high potency antipsychotics?

haloperidol, trifluoperazine, fluphenazine

What are some common typical antipsychotics?

haloperidol, trifluoperazine, fluphenazine, thioridazine, chlorpromazine

What drugs are commonly used by ER physicians to treat acute agitation?

haloperidol, ziprasidone, and olanzapine

What are the side effects of typical antipsychotics?

Dry mouth, constipation, hypotension, sedation, and with prolonged use, tardive dyskinesia (sometimes irreversible). There can also be endocrine SE's (tubuloinfundibular pathway) like hyperprolactinemia, gynecomastia, amenorrhea. There is also risk of neuroleptic malginant syndrome (NMS).

What can be a life-threatening side effect of clozapine?

Agranulocytosis

What are the potential side effects of risperidone?

At high doses, it can have side effects like a typical agent, it can increase prolactin levels, cause extra pyramidal symptoms like akathesia and tardive dyskinesia

Explain how long it may take buspirone (used for anxiety) to be effective

may not be effective until 1 to 2 weeks after continuous use

altered tissue perfusion r/t hypotension

Client is on Thorazine, last 2 days has had low bp (100/60). Complains of dizziness, weakness, not wanting to get out of bed. What is an appropriate nursing diagnosis? Impaired physical mobility r/t sedation, altered tissue perfusion r/t hypotension.

What are the potential side effects of quetiapine?

minor QT prolongation can occur. Like other atypical antipsycotics, it is associated with metabolic syndrome and NMS

List the mental and behavioral side effects of lorazapam

Drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, confusion, headache blurred vision, nausea, vomiting

State the black box warning for antipsychotics

mortality is increased in elderly pts

With respect to clinical effects, what is the difference between typical and atypical antipsychotics?

Typical antipsychotics primarily affect positive symptoms (delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thought, speech, and behavior). Atypicals also affect negative symptoms like flat affect, social withdrawal, and lack of motivation

What is tardive dyskinesia?

It is a movement disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements, especially of the face, such as grimacing, lip smacking, tongue protrusion, and blinking.

List the first two symptoms of NMS

Muscle rigidity hyperthermia (increased temp)

List the four types of EPS

Pseudoparkinsonism acute dystonia akathisia tardive dyskinesia

Explain the theory of the antipsychotics reduce psychotic symptoms

Psychotic symptoms result from an imbalance in the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. -too much

What are the potential side effects of ziprasidone?

QTc prolongation with risk of Torsades. Also, like other atypical antipsychotics, it is assocaited with metabolic syndrome and NMS

Say which type requires the antipsychotic be stopped

NMS-Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

Give the average duration of action of benzodiazepines when given orally

No longer than 3 to 4 months

Say which is best treated with a benzodiazepine

Tardive dyskinesia

prevent orthostatic hypotension

The nurse has just given a client 5 mg of Haldol IM. The nurse tells him that he should lie down for at least 30 min. This will help...with the distribution of the drug or prevent orthostatic hypotension.

A few hours (after drug therapy is started)

The nurse is talking to the mother of a 19 yo boy who is exhibiting hostility and hyperactivity and is very combative. The dr explained that her son is probably experiencing acute psychosis and will be started on an antipsychotic drug. The mom asks how long will it take for the drugs to work?

negative symptoms (of schizophrenia)

They are the absence of thoughts, perceptions, or behaviors that are ordinarily present in people in the general population. These symptoms are often stable throughout much of the patient's life.

What is the mechanism of action of atypical antipsychotics?

They block 5-HT2, alpha, H1, and DA receptors

constipation

What adverse effects would the nurse look for in a client who is taking ziprasidone (Geodon)? constipation, agitation, diarrhea, hypertension

anticholinergic drugs

What would a Dr. prescribe a client who is experiencing EPS (extrapyramidal side effects)?

NCLEX question A patient is prescribed lorazepam. What does the nurse know to be true regarding lorazepam? a. it is used to treat anxiety, status epilepticus, insomnia, and sedation induction. b. it has a maximum adult dose of 25mg/day c. it causes plasma level to be decreased when combine with cimetidine d. it interferes with the binding of dopamine receptors

a

NCLEX question A patient appears to have had an overdose of phenothiazines. The nurse anticipates that which intervention(s) may be used to treat phenothiazine overdose? Select all that apply a. Gastric lavage b. adequate hydration c. maintaining an airway d. fluphenazine e. risperidone f. activated charcoal administration

a b c f

NCLEX question An atypical antipsychotic is prescribed for a patient with psychosis. The nurse understands that this category of medications includes which drug? Select all that apply a. clozapine b. fluphenazine c. haloperidol d. olanzapine e. aripiprazole

a d e

risperidone (risperdal)

a frequently prescribed, atypical, first-choice antipsychotic agent.

psychosis

a severe mental disorder characterized by disordered thought processes.

The nurse is giving medications to a patient. Which drug or drug class, when administered w/lithium, increases the risk for lithium toxicity? a) thiazides b) levofloxacin c) calcium citrate d) beta blockers

a) thiazides

The nurse is assessing a young adult patient with schizophrenia who recently began taking fluphenazine (Prolixin). The patient is exhibiting spasms of facial muscles along with grimacing, and the nurse notes upward eye movements. The nurse suspects which side effect? a. Acute dystonia b. Akathisia c. Pseudoparkinsonism d. Tardive dyskinesia

a. Acute dystonia

The parent of a young adult who has schizophrenia is concerned that the patient spits out pills that are given. The nurse will suggest contacting the patient's provider to discuss which intervention? a. Changing to a liquid form of the mediation b. Providing a home health nurse to supervise medication administration c. Teaching the patient the importance of taking the medication d. Weekly intramuscular injections of the medication

a. Changing to a liquid form of the mediation

State the remedy for overdose of lorazepam

administer an emetic and activated charcoal

List the symptoms of abrupt withdrawal of lorazepam

agitation, nervousness, insomnia, tremor, anorexia

What are the potential side effects of clozapine?

agranulocytosis or granulocytopenia can occur (1%). It can also precipitate seizures and cause myocarditis. Like other atypical antipsychotics, it is associated with metabolic syndrome and NMS

List the drugs that potentiate the sedative effects of antipsychotics

alcohol hypnotics sedatives narcotics benzos

List interactions that can result in respiratory depression

alcohol and other CNS depressants

haloperidol (Haldol)

an antipsychotic drug that produces a low incidence of hypertension and sedation but higher incidence of extrapyramidal effects.

olanzapine (Zyprexa)

an atypical antipsychotic agent that is more likely to cause extrapyramidal side effects.

Drug class for fluphenazine (Prolixin)

antipsychotic typical

Drug class for haloperidol (Haldol)

antipsychotic-typical

The nurse is caring for a patient who has been taking clozapine (Clozaril) for 2 months. Which laboratory test(s) should be performed regularly while the patient is taking this medication? a) platelet count b) WBC count c) liver function studies d) renal function studies

b) WBC count

In caring for a patient experiencing ethanol withdrawal, the nurse expects to administer which medication or medication class as treatment for this condition? a) lithium (Eskalith) b) benzodiazepines c) buspirone (BuSpar) d) antidepressants

b) benzodiazepines

The nurse is teaching a patient about treatment w/an SSRI antidepressant. Which teaching considerations are appropriate? (select all that apply) a) the patient should be told which foods contain tyramine and instructed to avoid these foods b) the patient should be instructed to use caution when standing up from a sitting position c) the patient should not take any products that contain the herbal product St. John's wort d) this medication should not be stopped abruptly e) drug levels may become toxic if dehydration occurs f) the patient should be told to check with the prescriber before taking and OTC medications

b) the patient should be instructed to use caution when standing up from a sitting position c) the patient should not take any products that contain the herbal product St. John's wort d) this medication should not be stopped abruptly f) the patient should be told to check with the prescriber before taking and OTC medications

The nurse is teaching a patient who will be discharged home on a typical antipsychotic medication to treat schizophrenia. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching? a. "I should not drink alcohol while taking this medication." b. "I should use a heating pad to treat muscle spasms while taking this medication." c. "I should use sunscreen while taking this medication." d. "I will need frequent blood tests while taking this medication."

b. "I should use a heating pad to treat muscle spasms while taking this medication."

A patient who is about to begin taking the atypical antipsychotic medication clozapine (Clozaril) is concerned about side effects. What information will the nurse include when teaching the patient about this medication? a. "You are more likely to experience dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention." b. "You may experience weight gain, drowsiness, and headaches." c. "You will not experience extrapyramidal side effects with this medication." d. "You will not need frequent lab work while taking this medication."

b. "You may experience weight gain, drowsiness, and headaches." A) is for lithium

A patient is brought to the emergency department with decreased respirations and somnolence. The nurse notes a heart rate of 60 beats per minute and a blood pressure of 80/58 mm Hg. The patient is known to take alprazolam (Xanax) to treat anxiety. Which medication will the nurse anticipate the provider to order? a.Benztropine (Cogentin) b. Flumazenil (Romazicon) c. Lorazepam (Ativan) d. Propranolol (Inderal)

b. Flumazenil (Romazicon)

A patient who takes loxapine (Loxitane) to treat schizophrenia is noted to be restless and fidgety and is pacing around the room. The nurse caring for this patient will perform which action? a. Contact the provider to discuss changing to benztropine (Cogentin). b. Notify the provider of these symptoms and request an order for lorazepam (Ativan). c. Question the patient about adherence to the drug regimen. d. Recognize these signs of a serious adverse drug reaction and notify the provider.

b. Notify the provider of these symptoms and request an order for lorazepam (Ativan).

A patient has been taking risperidone (Risperdal) for 2 weeks. The patient reports drowsiness and headache. What will the nurse do? a. Counsel the patient to request changing to aripiprazole (Abilify). b. Reassure the patient that these are common side effects of the medication. c. Suggest that the patient have serum glucose testing. d. Suggest that these may be signs of agranulocytosis.

b. Reassure the patient that these are common side effects of the medication.

A patient who is taking chlorpromazine calls the clinic to report having reddish-brown urine. What action will the nurse take? a. Notify the provider and request orders for creatinine clearance and BUN levels. b. Reassure the patient that this is a harmless side effect of this medication. c. Tell the patient to come to the clinic for a urinalysis. d. Tell the patient to discard any drug on hand and request a new prescription.

b. Reassure the patient that this is a harmless side effect of this medication.

negative symptoms

blunted affect, apathy, anhedonia (loss of pleasure in activities that used to give pleasure), inattention, doesn't speek as much, and what he/she does say, means very little.

After a patient has been treated for depression for 4 weeks, the nurse calls the patient to schedule a follow-up visit. What concern will the nurse assess for during the conversation w/the patient? a) weakness b) hallucinations c) suicidal ideations d) difficulty w/urination

c) suicidal ideations

A patient arrives in the emergency department complaining of difficulty breathing, dizziness, sweating, and heart palpitations. The patient reports having had similar episodes previously. The nurse will expect the provider to order which medication? a. Flumazenil (Romazicon) b. Haloperidol (Haldol) c. Lorazepam (Ativan) d. Propranolol (Inderal)

c. Lorazepam (Ativan)

NCLEX question An antipsychotic agent, fluphenazine, is ordered for a patient with psychosis. The nurse understands that this agent can lead to symptoms of extrapyramidal syndrome (EPS). What are the symptoms of EPS? a. Parkinsonism b. nausea and vomiting c. hyperthermia and dysrhythmias d. tremors, rigidity, and shuffling gait

d

Patient teaching for a patient receiving an MAOI would include instructions to the patient to avoid which food product? a) orange juice b) milk c) shrimp d) swiss cheese

d) swiss cheese

The nurse is preparing to administer intramuscular haloperidol (Haldol) to a patient who has schizophrenia. What action will the nurse perform? a. Massage the site after injecting the medication to ensure complete absorption. b. Teach the patient to return every week to receive medication doses. c. Use a small bore needle when injecting the medication. d. Use the Z-track method and inject the medication into deep muscle tissue.

d. Use the Z-track method and inject the medication into deep muscle tissue.

The nurse is teaching a patient about taking an anxiolytic agent to treat grief-related anxiety. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the teaching? a. "I may have wine with dinner to help with relaxation." b. "I may need to take this medication for up to a year." c. "I may stop taking the medication when my symptoms go away." d. "I should try psychotherapy or a support group in addition to the medication."

d. "I should try psychotherapy or a support group in addition to the medication."

The nurse is performing a medication history on a patient who reports taking lorazepam (Ativan) for the past 6 months to treat an anxiety disorder. The patient states that the medication is not working as well as previously. The nurse will a. contact the provider to discuss changing to another benzodiazepine. b. notify the provider and discuss increasing the dose of lorazepam. c. suspect worsening of the anxiety disorder. d. understand that the patient has developed tolerance to this drug.

d. understand that the patient has developed tolerance to this drug.

List six basic side effects associated with typical antipsychotics

drowsiness dry mouth increased HR urinary retention constipation decreased BP

List the symptoms of a severe attack of anxiety

dyspnea choking sensation chest pain heart palpitations dizziness faintness sweating trembling shaking fear of losing control

List 2 advantages of the atypical agents

effective in treating negative symptoms unlikely to cause symptoms of EPS

delusions

false beliefs that persist in the absence of reason or evidence.

What are some common atypical antipsychotics?

olanzapine, clozapine, quetiapine, risperidone, aripiprazole, ziprasidone

Extrapyramidal effects

physical symptoms including tremor, dystonia (muscle tone disorder),bradyphrenia (slow thought process), slurred speech, anxiety, distress, akathisia ("inner" restlessness) paranoia associated with incorrect dosing of antipsychotic drugs.

Describe the pregnancy risk

possible teratogenic (disturb the development) effects

positive symptoms (of schizophrenia)

refer to thoughts, perceptions, and behaviors that are ordinarily absent in people in the general population, but are present in persons with schizoaffective disorder. These symptoms often vary over time in their severity, and may be absent for long periods in some patients.

neuroleptic

refers to any drug that modifies psychotic behavior

hallucinations

sensory perceptions of people or objects that are not present in the external environment.

chlorpromazine (Thorazine)

the first drug to effectively treat psychotic disorders.

aripiprazole (Abilify)

the newest atypical antipsychotic agent approved for the treatment of schizophrenia.

List the common side effects of atypical antipsychotics

weight gain drowsiness unsteady gait headache insomnia depression diabetes mellitus dyslipidemia (increased cholesterol)