The Side Effects of Antipsychotic Medications

The side effects of anti-psychotic medications are broad and sometimes include conditions ranging from constipation and dry mouth to sedation, hormonal fluctuations that result in sexual problems, uncontrollable movements of the mouth called tardive dyskinesia and general restlessness that causes discomfort called akathisia. Weight gain is also a risk as is an increased risk of developing diabetes.

With careful planing and support from medical professionals, the side effects from anti-psychotic medications can fortunately be handled and in some cases prevented via a combination of and therapy pharmacologic interventions.

Patients should not stop taking their anti-psychotic medications in a sudden fashion, always working with their doctor or healthcare professional to achieve their treatment goals. It is best for patients to taper their medications down over a period of weeks or even months. The amount of time it takes to get off of drug is usually determined in part by the amount of time someone has spent taking the drug.