Compassionate, Evidence-Based Care at Neurish Wellness
At Neurish Wellness, we know firsthand that antipsychotic medications are most effective when paired with a personalized, ethical, and supportive treatment plan. These medications are often essential for reducing psychotic symptoms and stabilizing mood, especially during episodes of acute psychosis, bipolar disorder, or schizoaffective disorder.
When a client arrives at Neurish Wellness in crisis, they begin their journey at our luxury El Toro house in Tustin, where we offer 24/7 nursing care in a calm, residential setting. This is our Crisis Stabilization program—a warm, clinically sophisticated space where antipsychotic medications can be administered and closely monitored to ensure both safety and effectiveness.
How Antipsychotic Medications Work
Antipsychotic medications work by affecting dopamine receptors in the brain—regulating the transmission of chemicals that impact thoughts, mood, and perception. These medications help reduce psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. They are prescribed not only for psychosis, but also for mood disorders like bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, as well as personality disorders in some cases.
Types of Antipsychotic Drugs
There are two main categories of antipsychotic drugs: first generation antipsychotics and second generation antipsychotics. While both types are effective in treating severe mental illness, they differ in their side effect profiles and mechanisms of action.
First Generation Antipsychotics (Typical Antipsychotics)
Also known as typical antipsychotics, these medications have been in use since the 1950s. They are effective in treating symptoms of psychosis, especially in treatment resistant schizophrenia, but they tend to carry a higher risk of certain side effects.
Examples include:
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Haloperidol
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Fluphenazine
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Perphenazine
Second Generation Antipsychotics (Atypical Antipsychotics)
Also called atypical antipsychotics, these second generation antipsychotic drugs are newer and generally better tolerated. While they also target dopamine receptors, they affect serotonin as well, which can improve mood stabilization and reduce anxiety.
These drugs are often used to treat bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and major depressive disorder, and are the most commonly prescribed antipsychotics today.
Examples include:
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Risperidone
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Olanzapine
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Quetiapine
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Aripiprazole
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Clozapine (often reserved for treatment resistant schizophrenia)
Side Effects and Monitoring
Like all medications, antipsychotic drugs come with potential side effects. Some of the most common include weight gain, sedation, and metabolic changes.
That’s why, during your stay at our El Toro facility, your medications will be closely monitored by a team of psychiatric professionals and nurses. We will make adjustments as needed to balance efficacy with comfort and safety.
Clients who are already taking antipsychotic medications and not seeing desired results—or experiencing intolerable side effects—will receive a full evaluation. We’ll never keep someone on the same medication just because it’s what they started with elsewhere.
Specialized Considerations
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Breast milk: Some antipsychotics may pass into breast milk, which we always consider in postpartum care plans.
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Increased risk: People with certain medical conditions may have an increased risk of side effects. We assess medical history thoroughly before prescribing any generation antipsychotic medications.
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Combination with therapy: Medication is most effective when paired with psychotherapy, group work, and holistic care—all of which are integrated into your treatment at Neurish.
Why Choose Neurish Wellness?
We’re not just a mental health center—we’re a sanctuary for healing. From ethical prescribing practices to beautiful surroundings, Neurish Wellness is redefining how mental health care should feel.
Whether you’re experiencing a first episode of psychotic symptoms or you’ve tried most antipsychotic drugs before, our team will work with you to find what works. Here, your experience is validated, your care is individualized, and your future is prioritized.
Get Help Today
If you or a loved one needs expert guidance with antipsychotic medications, reach out now. Neurish Wellness provides thoughtful, compassionate care for those living with mental health challenges—and we’re here when you need us most.
FAQs About Antipsychotic Medication
What is antipsychotic therapy?
Antipsychotic therapy involves the use of medications to manage symptoms of psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder. It often includes a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and supportive care to address the full scope of a mental health problem.
What are the side effects of antipsychotics?
Side effects of antipsychotics vary depending on the specific medication but may include drowsiness, significant weight gain, dry mouth, restlessness, and hormonal changes. Some long-term risks include extrapyramidal symptoms (movement disorders) like tardive dyskinesia and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. At Neurish Wellness, we monitor each client closely to manage and minimize these effects.
What is the difference between first and second generation antipsychotics?
First and second generation antipsychotics differ mainly in their side effect profiles and how they act on brain chemistry. First generation medications (typical antipsychotics) are more likely to cause motor side effects, while second generation medications (atypical antipsychotics) generally have a lower risk of movement disorders but may lead to significant weight gain or metabolic issues.
Are antipsychotic medications used with other drugs?
Yes, sometimes antipsychotics are prescribed alongside other drugs, such as mood stabilizers, antidepressants, or anti-anxiety medications—especially when treating complex conditions like bipolar disorder or co-occurring mental health problems. Our clinical team evaluates each case individually to ensure safe and effective combinations.
How do dopamine receptor antagonists work?
Dopamine receptor antagonists block dopamine receptors in the brain to reduce excessive dopamine activity, which is often linked to psychotic disorders. This helps relieve symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.
Does evidence suggest antipsychotic therapy is effective?
Yes, strong evidence suggests that antipsychotic therapy is highly effective in reducing psychotic symptoms and preventing relapse, especially when paired with psychotherapy and supportive services. At Neurish, we tailor treatment to each client to maximize outcomes and long-term success.
Can you experience withdrawal symptoms from antipsychotic medications?
Yes, stopping antipsychotics abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, nausea, agitation, or a return of psychotic symptoms. At Neurish, medication changes are always done gradually and under close supervision.
Are antipsychotics used to treat certain mental health conditions beyond schizophrenia?
Absolutely. While commonly used to treat schizophrenia, antipsychotics are also effective for certain mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, major depression with psychotic features, and other psychotic disorders.
What treatment options are available for people with psychosis?
Treatment options include antipsychotic therapy, individual psychotherapy, group therapy, holistic care, and family involvement. At Neurish Wellness, we customize each plan based on diagnosis, needs, and response to medication.
Do you treat other psychotic disorders besides schizophrenia?
Yes, in addition to schizophrenia, we treat other psychotic disorders such as schizoaffective disorder, delusional disorder, and psychosis related to mood or trauma.
Cole Dyar is the Executive Director & co-founder of Neurish Wellness. He has been working in the behavioral health field in operational, clinical, organizational, and managerial capacities for thirteen years. He holds a degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz in sociology and is a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC) as recognized by CCAPP. Cole holds a Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology including: Organizational Leadership and Design, a Post-Masters in General Marriage and Family Therapy, and is currently a doctoral candidate in MFT with an emphasis in Systemic Administration & Entrepreneurship.