Wk 6 Assignment Socw 6443 Antipsychotic Medications And The

Wk 6 Assignment Socw 6443 Antipsychotic Medications And The Treatment

Review the development of drugs to treat psychosis over time. Consider the side effects of antipsychotics and their interactions with neurotransmitter function. Explore the ethical concerns and challenges of treating psychotic disorders. Develop a presentation of a client who would benefit from antipsychotic medications. In a 3- to 5-page, APA-formatted paper in-text citations and full references, include the following based on the concepts in the treatment of psychotic disorders: An overview of the major developments in the treatment of psychosis including major drug classes. An explanation of three severe side effects of antipsychotic medications and potential alternative treatments. An explanation of the neurotransmitters involved with and affected by these medications. An explanation of the ethical concerns related to the treatment of psychotic disorders and how you would address them. An explanation of the challenges mental health professionals face in treating psychotic disorders and how you would address them. Then, based on what you know about the treatment of psychotic disorders, provide an original and hypothetical case study illustrating a client that would benefit from antipsychotic medications and a brief explanation of an appropriate treatment plan.

Paper For Above instruction

The treatment of psychotic disorders has evolved significantly over the past century, marked by the development of various pharmacological and psychological interventions. Historically, the use of antipsychotic medications revolutionized the management of conditions like schizophrenia and other psychoses, transforming these disorders from chronic, debilitating illnesses into manageable conditions (Lichtblau, 2011). The major drug classes used today include typical (first-generation) and atypical (second-generation) antipsychotics, each with distinct mechanisms, efficacy profiles, and side effects.

The early development of antipsychotics began with the discovery of chlorpromazine in the 1950s, which marked the advent of typical antipsychotics. These medications primarily target dopamine D2 receptors, reducing dopaminergic activity believed to contribute to psychosis (Preston, O’Neal, & Talaga, 2017). While initially effective in alleviating positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, they were associated with severe side effects, including extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, and metabolic disturbances. These adverse effects prompted the development of atypical antipsychotics like clozapine and risperidone, which target both dopamine and serotonin receptors, offering comparable efficacy with fewer motor side effects.

Despite their efficacy, antipsychotic medications are associated with significant side effects. Three severe adverse effects include metabolic syndrome, which elevates the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease; tardive dyskinesia, a potentially irreversible movement disorder; and neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a rare but life-threatening reaction characterized by hyperthermia and muscle rigidity (Lichtblau, 2011). Alternatives such as psychosocial interventions—including cognitive-behavioral therapy, social skills training, and family therapy—are integral parts of comprehensive treatment plans, especially when medication side effects are intolerable or contraindicated.

Neurotransmitter systems affected by antipsychotics primarily involve dopamine, serotonin, and to some extent, glutamate and other neuropeptides. Typical antipsychotics predominantly block dopamine D2 receptors in mesolimbic pathways, reducing positive psychotic symptoms but often causing motor side effects due to dopamine blockade in nigrostriatal pathways. Atypical antipsychotics act on both dopamine and serotonin receptors, which helps mitigate motor symptoms and may improve negative symptoms, such as social withdrawal and flat affect (Preston et al., 2017).

Ethical concerns in the treatment of psychotic disorders include informed consent, especially when clients lack insight into their illness, and balancing the benefits and risks of medication. Clients may resist pharmacological treatment due to fear of side effects or stigma. It is essential for clinicians to provide thorough psychoeducation, respect client autonomy, and explore collaborative decision-making to address these ethical challenges (Lichtblau, 2011). Ensuring culturally sensitive approaches and advocating for client rights are also critical ethical considerations.

Challenges in treating psychotic disorders encompass managing medication side effects, ensuring adherence, and addressing comorbid conditions such as substance abuse or depression. Nonadherence is common due to side effects or lack of insight. Strategies include psychoeducation, close symptom monitoring, and involving families or support systems. Developing individualized treatment plans that combine medication with psychosocial interventions can enhance outcomes and promote recovery (Preston et al., 2017).

Hypothetically, consider a client, Ms. A, a 30-year-old woman diagnosed with schizophrenia exhibiting persistent auditory hallucinations and paranoid delusions. She has tried atypical antipsychotics but discontinued due to weight gain and sedation. Her symptoms significantly impair her daily functioning. A comprehensive treatment plan would involve reintroducing antipsychotic medication, possibly a different agent with fewer metabolic side effects, alongside cognitive-behavioral therapy for psychosis and family psychoeducation. Monitoring for side effects and engaging Ms. A in shared decision-making would be vital to ensure adherence and improve her quality of life.

References

• Lichtblau, L. (2011). Psychopharmacology demystified. Clifton Park, NY: Delmar, Cengage Learning.
• Preston, J. D., O’Neal, J. H., & Talaga, M. C. (2017). Handbook of clinical psychopharmacology for therapists (8th ed.). Oakland, CA: New Harbinger.