Treating Psychotic Disorders

Schizophrenia belongs to the category of mental illnesses, and it is characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and problems with behaviour. Typical and atypical (newer) antipsychotic medications are used to treat the cases of schizophrenia.Treating Psychotic Disorders Coursework

Antipsychotic drugs are prescribed to prevent the recurring symptoms and relieve the patient’s state. It is more common today to prescribe atypical antipsychotic medications to treat schizophrenia because of fewer side effects in comparison with the typical antipsychotic medications (Perry et al., 2007).

Harry suffers from schizophrenia and such hallucinations as hearing voices which become stronger in spite of the medical treatment. Harry was prescribed to take Risperdal, Zyprexa, Seroquel, and Geodon in order to relieve the symptoms. However, he did not notice the observable positive effects of the treatment provided.

Risperdal, Zyprexa, Seroquel, and Geodon are the newer antipsychotic medications which are discussed as atypical antipsychotic medications. In spite of the fact Harry tried several therapies using different atypical antipsychotic medications, the symptoms were not eased, but they became even more sever. That is why, Harry should be proposed the alternative antipsychotic drug treatment.Treating Psychotic Disorders Coursework

If atypical antipsychotic medications do not work in relation to Harry’s case, it is possible to start using the typical medications such as Thorazine or Trilafon. These medications are effective to cope with schizophrenia’s symptoms regulating the balance of brain chemicals (Preston, O’Neal, & Talaga, 2010). However, Harry should be informed about the possible side effects.

The patient can suffer from sleepiness, insomnia, blurred vision, extrapyramidal symptoms, and dry mouth. Thus, the state of Harry’s mental and physical health, and his reaction to the medication should be controlled on a regular basis. The problem is in the fact that Harry feels depressed because of hearing voices constantly. Much attention should be paid to the possible intensification of the nervousness or depressed moods.

The main ethical concern which should be addressed in Harry’s case is the provision of the opportunity to decide about the usage of this or that typical medication with references to the side effects because Harry cannot rely on the doctor’s choice completely.Treating Psychotic Disorders Coursework

Ralph suffers from visual hallucinations such as ‘glitters’ and ‘flashes’. While taking the medications, Ralph became to suffer from the extrapyramidal symptoms. Ralph was prescribed to take Mellaril. In spite of the fact the schizophrenia symptoms were treated successfully, the side effects were significant and prevented Ralph from his usual activities.