Antipsychotic Drugs: Pharmacology, Side Effects & Abuse Prevention

Since the mid-1990s, a revolution in regards to prescribing antipsychotics has taken place. Once utilized only for schizophrenia, the newer, second generation antipsychotics have now been approved for the treatment of bipolar disorders, depressive disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. They are often utilised elsewhere for the treatment of anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and to calm agitated patients when dangerous behaviours occur. Prescription rates have soared making them some of the most advertised, prescribed and profitable drugs on the market. This book was developed with input of international authors of varying backgrounds to review the history and development of these agents and to focus on the utilization of these drugs in various disorders, age groups, and clinical situations.