Antipsychotics

Antipsychotics are the mainstay of psychosis treatment. They are also used in the acute and long-term treatment of bipolar disorder, in depression and other conditions. They are classified as first-generation ('typical') and second-generation ('atypical') antipsychotics based on their ability to cause extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). Metabolic adverse effects occur mainly with second-generation antipsychotics. Both classes have broadly similar efficacy in controlling the symptoms of psychosis with the exception of clozapine, which is unique in its improved efficacy in treatment-resistant schizophrenia.