Composition and effects of commonly used neuroleptics

Neuroleptic drugs have long been the cornerstone of treatment for patients with psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia. This approach to therapy has proved effective in alleviating the distressing symptoms which disturb and disrupt the lives of patients and their families. Neuroleptics are particularly useful for relieving the so-called 'positive' symptoms of psychosis which include delusions, hallucinations and thought disorder. Once these symptoms have passed, many patients are advised to continue taking neuroleptic medication in order to prevent relapse, and it is not unusual for patients to be on neuroleptic medication for several years. This paper describes the composition and effects of the more commonly used neuroleptics.