In my book “The Overlife, A Tale Of Schizophrenia,” I write about the substantial benefits of the correct antipsychotic medication from a competent psychiatrist. We often see phrases like “With the appropriate medication and therapy, a person living with a mental illness can have a fulfilling life.” I mentioned in my book that the character Sarah had to battle some side effects from medication as she worked with her doctors toward a solution she could tolerate. My experience as Diana Dirkby has been similar. I have been fortunate that my current medication seems to be causing only the symptom of dry mouth. My dentist works with me on that problem.
Anyone working with you on the mental illness or brain disorder with which you live has to consider the factor of side effects. However, everyone’s experience with the side effects of medication is unique. I am listing in this blog post some of the better-known side effects.
Antipsychotic medications are used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. They work by blocking the effects of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood, thinking, and behavior.
Antipsychotic medications can have several side effects, some more common than others. The most common side effects include:
- Dry mouth: This common side effect can be bothersome but is usually not serious.
- Weight gain: Antipsychotic medications can cause weight gain, which can be a significant problem for some people.
- Movement disorders: Some antipsychotic medications can cause movement disorders, such as tremors, stiffness, and restlessness. These disorders can be severe and may require treatment with other medicines.
- Sexual dysfunction: Antipsychotic medications can cause sexual dysfunction, such as decreased libido, difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, and difficulty reaching orgasm.
- Other side effects: Other side effects of antipsychotic medications can include blurred vision, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and trouble sleeping.
The risk of side effects varies depending on the type of antipsychotic medication and the individual patient. Some people are more likely to experience side effects than others.
If you are taking antipsychotic medication, talking to your doctor about the possible side effects is essential. Your doctor can help you manage any side effects that you experience.
In addition to the side effects listed above, some other potential risks are associated with antipsychotic medication use. These include:
- Tardive dyskinesia: This rare but severe side effect can cause involuntary movements of the face, tongue, and other body parts.
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: This is a life-threatening condition that can occur in people taking antipsychotic medication. It is characterized by high fever, muscle rigidity, and changes in mental status.
- Suicidal thoughts and behavior: Antipsychotic medication can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in some people. If you are taking antipsychotic medication, you must be aware of this risk and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Considering antipsychotic medication, weighing the risks and benefits with your doctor is essential. Antipsychotic medication can be a helpful treatment for many people, but it is necessary to be aware of the potential side effects.