Antipsychotics

Psychotropics include antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety drugs. Most commonly, when people talk about psychotropics, they are referring to antipsychotics. These medications generally are used to treat serious mental illnesses, such as psychosis.

Antipsychotics should be used carefully, as they may have some serious side effects. These include increased risk of falls or stroke and a condition called tardive dyskinesia, which is involuntary movements such as rocking or chewing - which may become permanent. Whenever possible, the facility’s interdisciplinary team will try to find ways to manage behavioral problems without using drugs. They may talk to the family about the person’s habits, likes and dislikes, and other factors to determine the reason for the behavior. It is important to remember that nursing facility staff cannot give a psychotropic drug without a physician’s order and an appropriate diagnosis. No patient can get these medications just because he or she is restless or upset.

AMDA physicians in regions throughout the country have information and guidance on this topic. You can listen to practitioners offer insights about antipsychotic medications, how to keep your family member/friend safe if he or she is taking an antipsychotic, and how you can work with the physician and other team members to help manage a behavioral problem or issue.*

Lory E. Bright-Long, MD, CMD	New York
Jonathan M. Evans, MD, CMD	Virginia
John E. Morley, MB BCh	Missouri
David Smith, MD, FAAFP, CMD	Texas
*Requires a program that plays MP3 audio files