Biological - somehow the biological make-up of a person has to be altered in some way.
Antidepressants work by increasing serotonin by reducing its uptake, + antipsychotics
reduce the symptoms of schizo by inhibiting the effect of dopamine.
Antidepressants
Act upon the neurological system of the body, varying no. of neurotransmitters like
serotonin.
Most known one is called SSRI.
After carrying a message, serotonin is usually reabsorbed by nerve cells which is known as
reuptake. SSRIs work by blocking this reuptake, meaning more serotonin is available to
pass further messages between nearby nerve cells.
Egs are - Cipramil, Cipralex, Lustral
Antipsychotics
Schizo was treated w psychosurgery or ECT, but was ineffective.
Antipsychotics block dopamine (dopamine antagonists).
Drugs occupy the postsynaptic receptor sites, which reduces activity in postsynaptic
neurons.
Reduced activity = less activity in the mesolimbic pathway causing a decrease in positive
symptoms. Given in tablet form or by injection which is less common. But if the medication
stops they will relapse and have the symptoms again.
Typical antipsychotics were introduced in the 1950s as a tranquiliser to calm patients and
reduced positive symptoms but not negative.
Atypical are newer + more widely used. Block dopamine receptors in a more gradual way
+ reduce negative symptoms.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)!
Once you are comfortable on the bed, you will be given an anaesthetic via injection. When
unconscious, another injection is given (muscle relaxant) to minimise the convulsions
caused by the seizure. Because of the relaxant, you will be given oxygen and the
anaesthetist will look after the breathing using a face mask. Two padded electrodes will be
placed on each side of the head or both. A mouth guard placed into the mouth so you don’t
bite down on your tongue. ECT machine will give series of brief, high-voltage electrical
pulses ab 60 to 70 a second for 3-5 seconds, causing you to have a seizure. This will cause
stiffening and there may be twitching movements in the hands, feet, and face. It should last
about 20-50 seconds.
Usually, 6-8 treatments are given over a 3-4 week period 2x a week).
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