Korean J Psychopharmacol.  2004 Jun;15(2):125-134.

Atypical Antipsychotics: The Benefit and Disadvantage

• Kwon JS
• Lee KJ

Abstract

Atypical antipsychotics have more beneficial effects than conventional antipsychotics, particularly with regard to negative symptoms, cognitive functions, and also have a superior side effect profile. Although with such advantages, the use of the atypical antipsychotics cause numerous complications such as hypertension, increase of insuline, diabetes mellitus due to gain in weight, hyperprolactinemia, sexual dysfunctions, cardiovascular symptoms as well as noncompliance due to the previously mentioned side effects and high medical expenses which burden individual and governments. Now is the time to consider both advantages and disadvantages to balance out gains and losses in using the atypical antipsychotics. Blind trust or exclusive decision in using the atypical antipsychotics are unsuitableness. The decision on the use of the medicine must be the one that balances out its general advantages and disadvantages and its appropriateness must be decided upon a full consideration of its pharmacology, efficacies and side effects.

Keyword

Atypical antipsychotics; Typical antipsychotics; The benefit and disadvantage; Medication algorithm

MeSH Terms

Antipsychotic Agents*
Diabetes Mellitus
Hyperprolactinemia
Hypertension
Insulin
Neurobehavioral Manifestations
Pharmacology
Antipsychotic Agents
Insulin