The ability of traditional antipsychotic drugs to relieve schizophrenia correlates strongly with what effect on neurotransmitters?

Ciccarelli: Psychology_5 (5th Edition)
5th Edition
ISBN:9780134477961
Author:Saundra K. Ciccarelli, J. Noland White
Publisher:Saundra K. Ciccarelli, J. Noland White
Chapter1: The Science Of Psychology
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The ability of traditional antipsychotic drugs to relieve schizophrenia correlates strongly with what effect on neurotransmitters?

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Step 1

Traditional antipsychotics describe the first-line treatment for the illness of schizophrenia.

In clinical trials, these medications are useful in the treatment of symptoms correlated with schizophrenia.

However, these medications may be associated with severe side effects. Traditional antipsychotics often called first-generation psychotropic drugs, treats psychosis symptoms. 

Thorazine and Haldol describe the best examples of traditional antipsychotics. Even though they are traditional, they are useful in severe behavioral problems and psychosis in comparison to new medications. 

Step 2

Antipsychotics can increase or reduce the neurotransmitter effects in the brain to regulate the levels.

The neurotransmitter can help with the transfer of information. These drugs can impact dopamine levels by blocking the receptors of dopamine.

As the dopamine receptors are blocked, the flow of messages is disrupted, resulting in less positive symptoms of schizophrenia. 

Hence, conventional antipsychotics can block dopamine synapses, and improve positive symptoms.

However, these medications can also block receptors of dopamine in areas that are present exterior to the mesolimbic pathway. This results in worsening negative symptoms correlated with schizophrenia.

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