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Management of common adverse effects of antipsychotic medications.

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eMediNexus    03 October 2018

A new study published in World Psychiatry reviewed management strategies for the most frequent side effects, for example constipation, akathisia, and sexual dysfunction, and identified common principles intended to optimize net antipsychotic benefits. The findings were summarized as follows: antipsychotics should only be used if the indication is clear while they should be continued in cases where a benefit has been established. If an antipsychotic demonstrates substantial benefit and the adverse effect is not life-threatening, then the first management strategy should be to lower the dose or to adjust the dosing schedule. Another option is to change the antipsychotic; this is often reasonable unless the risk of relapse is high. In some cases, behavioral interventions can be tried. Concomitant medications, which may be necessary in many patients, can provide considerable relief. It was further stated that usual medications are effective for treating constipation or dyslipidemias in patients who are on antipsychotics.

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