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Long-Term Effects of Antipsychotics

Written by \"\"Erin L. GeorgeMedically reviewed by \"\"Morgan Blair

Published on · Updated on

Antipsychotic drugs have been the frontline treatment for people diagnosed with psychosis or schizophrenia since their inception in the 1950s. [1]

There is a wealth of evidence supporting the efficacy of antipsychotics, over the short and mid-term, in managing psychotic symptoms. While this class of medication can improve sufferer’s daily functioning and quality of life, they can also have potential long-term effects.

Long-term effects can vary based on the type of antipsychotic being taken, the individual’s health and a range of other factors. This article will delve into the long-term effects of antipsychotics.

\"Prescription

Key takeaways

  • Antipsychotics can control psychotic symptoms, but long-term treatment may also carry significant adverse effects.
  • Potential concerns include metabolic changes, movement disorders, cardiovascular effects, and hormonal or sexual difficulties.
  • Regular monitoring and shared decisions with a prescriber help balance symptom control against individual risks.

What are the possible long-term effects of antipsychotics?

Antipsychotics can effectively reduce the impact of psychotic disorders in many people’s lives, but there is a body of evidence cautioning against the long-term effects of antipsychotic use. These include:

Metabolic syndrome

Some antipsychotic medications are associated with weight gain, changes in blood sugar levels, and increased risk of metabolic conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol. [2] Metabolic syndrome is the medical term for a combination of some or all these symptoms. [2]

If you are diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, you are more likely to develop diabetes, heart disease, or suffer a stroke. [2]

Neurodevelopmental issues

While antipsychotics aim to improve cognitive functioning in patients, there is some evidence suggesting that long-term use might have a stunting impact on their brains.

In 2005, a study with macaque monkeys showed that antipsychotics reduced brain matters by roughly 10% over 18 months of treatment. [3] Another study carried out on humans in 2010 also indicated that antipsychotics reduced brain matter. It is unclear whether this structural reduction within the brain correlates with a decrease in intellectual capacity, with studies divided on the matter. [3]

Tardive dyskinesia

Some antipsychotics, particularly first-generation or typical antipsychotics, can lead to movement disorders such as tardive dyskinesia (TD). [4]

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) refers to involuntary, repetitive body movements and is commonly presented by patients who are on long-term treatment with antipsychotics, with 20%-50% of long-term patients affected. [4]

TD is often irreversible, and patients can present symptoms long after they’ve stopped using the medication. If you have concerns about TD, consult your doctor for further information. Healthcare providers are responsible for educating themselves and others on the risks associated with antipsychotics and ensuring patients are kept up to date regarding medical developments on the matter. [4]

Cardiovascular complications

Some antipsychotics have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues, including irregular heartbeats and an increased risk of heart disease.

Certain antipsychotics can prolong the QT interval, which is a measure of the electrical activity of the heart. Prolonged QT intervals can lead to potentially life-threatening arrhythmias, such as torsades de pointes. [5]

Long-term antipsychotic use, particularly in higher doses, has been associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death, especially in older adults and those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. [5]

It is worth noting that many atypical antipsychotics have side effects which are known to exacerbate cardiovascular problems. Weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and higher cholesterol are all adversely affected by antipsychotic use, further compounding the cardiovascular complications related to their long-term use. [5]

Quality of life and social functioning potentially impaired

Whilst antipsychotics can improve symptoms in people suffering from psychotic disorders in the short-term, there is evidence that long-term use may impair their social functioning.

Some people may experience emotional blunting, reduced motivation, and social withdrawal. Other adverse effects such as akathisia (chronic restlessness) may further impair a person’s quality of life. [6]

Hormonal effects

One of the most common hormonal effects of antipsychotic medications, particularly first-generation (typical) antipsychotics and some second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics, is an elevation in prolactin levels.

Prolactin is a hormone responsible for milk production in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Increased prolactin levels can lead to a condition called hyperprolactinemia, which can cause symptoms like irregular menstrual periods, breast enlargement (gynecomastia) in males, and decreased sexual desire. [7]

Sexual dysfunction

Sexual dysfunction is a common side effect of long-term antipsychotic use. Antipsychotic medications can interfere with the normal functioning of sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone. This can lead to changes in sexual desire, menstrual irregularities in females, and sexual dysfunction. [6] [7]

Risperidone, haloperidol, and olanzapine are considered the antipsychotics most likely to cause sexual dysfunction in patients. [8] These medicines are often associated with erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory issues in men; menstrual irregularities, decreased vaginal lubrication and amenorrhea in women. [8]

Clozapine, quetiaptine, and aripiprazole are all reported to have a lower impact on sexual dysfunction [8]. Although, more research is needed in this area and these medications may still cause erectile and ejaculatory issues in men. [8]

What to ask your doctor about long-term antipsychotic use

When discussing the long-term effects of taking antipsychotic medications with your doctor, it's important to ask informed and comprehensive questions to ensure you have a clear understanding of the potential risks and benefits. Here are 10 questions you might consider asking:

  1. What are the potential long-term effects of the antipsychotic medication I'm taking?
  2. What are the most common long-term effects and how long will they last?
  3. Will I be taking this medication for the rest of my life?
  4. Are there any food, drinks, supplements,or other drugs that I should abstain from when taking this drug?
  5. How common are these long-term effects, and who is most at risk for experiencing them?
  6. Are there any specific monitoring or tests I should undergo to track potential long-term effects?
  7. What strategies can I use to minimize or manage the potential side effects associated with long-term use?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to reduce the risk of long-term side effects?
  9. Is it possible to periodically review or reassess my medication regimen to ensure it's still the most appropriate option for me?
  10. How does my medical history, family history, and current health status affect the potential for long-term effects?

Remember that your doctor is there to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your healthcare. Be open about your concerns and preferences, and don't hesitate to ask for clarification if you don't understand something.

Final thoughts

Antipsychotic medication can prove invaluable in the management of your psychotic disorder, but it’s important to weigh up the risks versus the benefits.

It's crucial for individuals taking antipsychotic medications to work closely with their healthcare providers to monitor and manage potential long-term effects. Regular check-ups, open communication, and mutual decision-making are essential for finding the right balance between symptom management and minimizing side effects.

References

    \n
  1. Goff, D. C., Falkai, P., Fleischhacker, W. W., Girgis, R. R., Kahn, R. M., Uchida, H., Zhao, J., & Lieberman, J. A. (2017). The Long-Term Effects of Antipsychotic Medication on Clinical Course in Schizophrenia. American Journal of Psychiatry, 174(9), 840–849. The Long-Term Effects of Antipsychotic Medication on Clinical Course in Schizophrenia
    2. \n
  2. MIND. (2020, September). Side effects. Www.mind.org.uk. Mind
    3. \n
  3. Moncrieff, J. (2015). Long-term effects of antipsychotics. BJPsych Advances, 21(2), 78–79. Long-term effects of antipsychotics
    4. \n
  4. Cornett, E. M., Novitch, M., Kaye, A. D., Kata, V., & Kaye, A. M. (2017). Medication-Induced Tardive Dyskinesia: A Review and Update. The Ochsner Journal, 17(2), 162–174. National Library of Medicine
    5. \n
  5. Stoner, S. C. (2017). Management of serious cardiac adverse effects of antipsychotic medications. Mental Health Clinician, 7(6), 246–254. Management of serious cardiac adverse effects of antipsychotic medications
    6. \n
  6. Moncrieff, J., Lewis, G., Freemantle, N., Johnson, S., Barnes, T. R. E., Morant, N., Pinfold, V., Hunter, R., Kent, L. J., Smith, R., Darton, K., Horne, R., Crellin, N. E., Cooper, R. E., & Priebe, S. (2019). Randomised controlled trial of gradual antipsychotic reduction and discontinuation in people with schizophrenia and related disorders: the RADAR trial (Research into Antipsychotic Discontinuation and Reduction). BMJ Open, 9(11), e030912. Randomised controlled trial of gradual antipsychotic reduction and discontinuation in…
    7. \n
  7. Wieck, A. (2002). Hyperprolactinaemia caused by antipsychotic drugs. BMJ, 324(7332), 250–252. Hyperprolactinaemia caused by antipsychotic drugs
    8. \n
  8. Sexual Dysfunction Associated with Antidepressants and Antipsychotics. (n.d.). Www.medsafe.govt.nz. medsafe.govt.nz
    9. \n

Medical Content

The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.

About MentalHealth.com

MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.

\"\"

Author

Erin L. George

MFT

Erin L. George, MFT, holds a master's degree in family therapy with a focus on group dynamics in high-risk families. As a court-appointed special advocate for children, she is dedicated to helping families rebuild relationships and improve their mental and behavioral health.

Published
Updated
\"\"

Medical Reviewer

Morgan Blair

MA, LPCC

Morgan Blair is a licensed therapist, writer and medical reviewer, holding a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University.

Reviewed

Subject matter expert

\"\"

Leila Khurshid, Pharm.D.

Clinical pharmacy and medication

View experience
\"\"

Related communities

Medications

Explore questions and perspectives about psychiatric medications and the treatment experience.

Explore community
","text":"HomeLibraryMedicationsLong-Term Effects of AntipsychoticsLong-Term Effects of AntipsychoticsWritten by Erin L. GeorgeMedically reviewed by Morgan BlairPublished on October 13, 2023 · Updated on September 2, 2025Antipsychotic drugs have been the frontline treatment for people diagnosed with psychosis or schizophrenia since their inception in the 1950s. [1]There is a wealth of evidence supporting the efficacy of antipsychotics, over the short and mid-term, in managing psychotic symptoms. While this class of medication can improve sufferer’s daily functioning and quality of life, they can also have potential long-term effects.Long-term effects can vary based on the type of antipsychotic being taken, the individual’s health and a range of other factors. This article will delve into the long-term effects of antipsychotics.Key takeawaysAntipsychotics can control psychotic symptoms, but long-term treatment may also carry significant adverse effects.Potential concerns include metabolic changes, movement disorders, cardiovascular effects, and hormonal or sexual difficulties.Regular monitoring and shared decisions with a prescriber help balance symptom control against individual risks.What are the possible long-term effects of antipsychotics?Antipsychotics can effectively reduce the impact of psychotic disorders in many people’s lives, but there is a body of evidence cautioning against the long-term effects of antipsychotic use. These include:Metabolic syndromeSome antipsychotic medications are associated with weight gain, changes in blood sugar levels, and increased risk of metabolic conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol. [2] Metabolic syndrome is the medical term for a combination of some or all these symptoms. [2]If you are diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, you are more likely to develop diabetes, heart disease, or suffer a stroke. [2]Neurodevelopmental issuesWhile antipsychotics aim to improve cognitive functioning in patients, there is some evidence suggesting that long-term use might have a stunting impact on their brains.In 2005, a study with macaque monkeys showed that antipsychotics reduced brain matters by roughly 10% over 18 months of treatment. [3] Another study carried out on humans in 2010 also indicated that antipsychotics reduced brain matter. It is unclear whether this structural reduction within the brain correlates with a decrease in intellectual capacity, with studies divided on the matter. [3]Tardive dyskinesiaSome antipsychotics, particularly first-generation or typical antipsychotics, can lead to movement disorders such as tardive dyskinesia (TD). [4]Tardive dyskinesia (TD) refers to involuntary, repetitive body movements and is commonly presented by patients who are on long-term treatment with antipsychotics, with 20%-50% of long-term patients affected. [4]TD is often irreversible, and patients can present symptoms long after they’ve stopped using the medication. If you have concerns about TD, consult your doctor for further information. Healthcare providers are responsible for educating themselves and others on the risks associated with antipsychotics and ensuring patients are kept up to date regarding medical developments on the matter. [4]Cardiovascular complicationsSome antipsychotics have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues, including irregular heartbeats and an increased risk of heart disease.Certain antipsychotics can prolong the QT interval, which is a measure of the electrical activity of the heart. Prolonged QT intervals can lead to potentially life-threatening arrhythmias, such as torsades de pointes. [5]Long-term antipsychotic use, particularly in higher doses, has been associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death, especially in older adults and those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. [5]It is worth noting that many atypical antipsychotics have side effects which are known to exacerbate cardiovascular problems. Weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and higher cholesterol are all adversely affected by antipsychotic use, further compounding the cardiovascular complications related to their long-term use. [5]Quality of life and social functioning potentially impairedWhilst antipsychotics can improve symptoms in people suffering from psychotic disorders in the short-term, there is evidence that long-term use may impair their social functioning.Some people may experience emotional blunting, reduced motivation, and social withdrawal. Other adverse effects such as akathisia (chronic restlessness) may further impair a person’s quality of life. [6]Hormonal effectsOne of the most common hormonal effects of antipsychotic medications, particularly first-generation (typical) antipsychotics and some second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics, is an elevation in prolactin levels.Prolactin is a hormone responsible for milk production in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Increased prolactin levels can lead to a condition called hyperprolactinemia, which can cause symptoms like irregular menstrual periods, breast enlargement (gynecomastia) in males, and decreased sexual desire. [7]Sexual dysfunctionSexual dysfunction is a common side effect of long-term antipsychotic use. Antipsychotic medications can interfere with the normal functioning of sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone. This can lead to changes in sexual desire, menstrual irregularities in females, and sexual dysfunction. [6] [7]Risperidone, haloperidol, and olanzapine are considered the antipsychotics most likely to cause sexual dysfunction in patients. [8] These medicines are often associated with erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory issues in men; menstrual irregularities, decreased vaginal lubrication and amenorrhea in women. [8]Clozapine, quetiaptine, and aripiprazole are all reported to have a lower impact on sexual dysfunction [8]. Although, more research is needed in this area and these medications may still cause erectile and ejaculatory issues in men. [8]What to ask your doctor about long-term antipsychotic useWhen discussing the long-term effects of taking antipsychotic medications with your doctor, it's important to ask informed and comprehensive questions to ensure you have a clear understanding of the potential risks and benefits. Here are 10 questions you might consider asking:What are the potential long-term effects of the antipsychotic medication I'm taking?What are the most common long-term effects and how long will they last?Will I be taking this medication for the rest of my life?Are there any food, drinks, supplements,or other drugs that I should abstain from when taking this drug?How common are these long-term effects, and who is most at risk for experiencing them?Are there any specific monitoring or tests I should undergo to track potential long-term effects?What strategies can I use to minimize or manage the potential side effects associated with long-term use?Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to reduce the risk of long-term side effects?Is it possible to periodically review or reassess my medication regimen to ensure it's still the most appropriate option for me?How does my medical history, family history, and current health status affect the potential for long-term effects?Remember that your doctor is there to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your healthcare. Be open about your concerns and preferences, and don't hesitate to ask for clarification if you don't understand something.Final thoughtsAntipsychotic medication can prove invaluable in the management of your psychotic disorder, but it’s important to weigh up the risks versus the benefits.It's crucial for individuals taking antipsychotic medications to work closely with their healthcare providers to monitor and manage potential long-term effects. Regular check-ups, open communication, and mutual decision-making are essential for finding the right balance between symptom management and minimizing side effects.References Goff, D. C., Falkai, P., Fleischhacker, W. W., Girgis, R. R., Kahn, R. M., Uchida, H., Zhao, J., & Lieberman, J. A. (2017). The Long-Term Effects of Antipsychotic Medication on Clinical Course in Schizophrenia. American Journal of Psychiatry, 174(9), 840–849. The Long-Term Effects of Antipsychotic Medication on Clinical Course in Schizophrenia MIND. (2020, September). Side effects. Www.mind.org.uk. Mind Moncrieff, J. (2015). Long-term effects of antipsychotics. BJPsych Advances, 21(2), 78–79. Long-term effects of antipsychotics Cornett, E. M., Novitch, M., Kaye, A. D., Kata, V., & Kaye, A. M. (2017). Medication-Induced Tardive Dyskinesia: A Review and Update. The Ochsner Journal, 17(2), 162–174. National Library of Medicine Stoner, S. C. (2017). Management of serious cardiac adverse effects of antipsychotic medications. Mental Health Clinician, 7(6), 246–254. Management of serious cardiac adverse effects of antipsychotic medications Moncrieff, J., Lewis, G., Freemantle, N., Johnson, S., Barnes, T. R. E., Morant, N., Pinfold, V., Hunter, R., Kent, L. J., Smith, R., Darton, K., Horne, R., Crellin, N. E., Cooper, R. E., & Priebe, S. (2019). Randomised controlled trial of gradual antipsychotic reduction and discontinuation in people with schizophrenia and related disorders: the RADAR trial (Research into Antipsychotic Discontinuation and Reduction). BMJ Open, 9(11), e030912. Randomised controlled trial of gradual antipsychotic reduction and discontinuation in… Wieck, A. (2002). Hyperprolactinaemia caused by antipsychotic drugs. BMJ, 324(7332), 250–252. Hyperprolactinaemia caused by antipsychotic drugs Sexual Dysfunction Associated with Antidepressants and Antipsychotics. (n.d.). Www.medsafe.govt.nz. medsafe.govt.nz Medical ContentThe Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.About MentalHealth.comMentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.AuthorErin L. GeorgeMFTErin L. George, MFT, holds a master's degree in family therapy with a focus on group dynamics in high-risk families. As a court-appointed special advocate for children, she is dedicated to helping families rebuild relationships and improve their mental and behavioral health.PublishedOctober 13, 2023UpdatedSeptember 2, 2025Medical ReviewerMorgan BlairMA, LPCCMorgan Blair is a licensed therapist, writer and medical reviewer, holding a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University.ReviewedOctober 13, 2023Subject matter expertLeila Khurshid, Pharm.D.Clinical pharmacy and medicationView experienceRelated communitiesMedicationsExplore questions and perspectives about psychiatric medications and the treatment experience.Explore communityTable of contentsChoose a sectionWhat are the possible long-term effects of antipsychotics?What to ask your doctor about long-term antipsychotic useFinal thoughtsView moreSubject matter expertLeila Khurshid, Pharm.D.Clinical pharmacy and medicationView experienceRelated communitiesMedicationsExplore questions and perspectives about psychiatric medications and the treatment experience.Explore community","wordCount":1564},"schema":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/#organization","name":"MentalHealth.com","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/#website","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/","name":"MentalHealth.com","inLanguage":"en-US","publisher":{"@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/#organization"}},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Library","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Medications","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/medications"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Long-Term Effects of Antipsychotics","item":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics"}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#primaryimage","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/qa246/editorial-17202.webp","contentUrl":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/qa246/editorial-17202.webp","width":1000,"height":555,"encodingFormat":"image/webp","caption":"Prescription tablets beside medication containers."},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/erin-george#person","name":"Erin L. 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George","level":3,"url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#erin-l-george"},{"id":"morgan-blair","title":"Morgan Blair","level":3,"url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#morgan-blair"}],"references":[{"number":1,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#long-term-effects-antipsychotic-medication-clinical-course-schizophrenia","text":"Goff, D. C., Falkai, P., Fleischhacker, W. W., Girgis, R. R., Kahn, R. M., Uchida, H., Zhao, J., & Lieberman, J. A. (2017). The Long-Term Effects of Antipsychotic Medication on Clinical Course in Schizophrenia. American Journal of Psychiatry, 174(9), 840–849. The Long-Term Effects of Antipsychotic Medication on Clinical Course in Schizophrenia","links":[{"url":"https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2017.16091016","label":"The Long-Term Effects of Antipsychotic Medication on Clinical Course in Schizophrenia"}],"url":"https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2017.16091016"},{"number":2,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#side-effects","text":"MIND. (2020, September). Side effects. Www.mind.org.uk. Mind","links":[{"url":"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/antipsychotics/side-effects/","label":"Mind"}],"url":"https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/antipsychotics/side-effects/"},{"number":3,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#long-term-effects-antipsychotics","text":"Moncrieff, J. (2015). Long-term effects of antipsychotics. BJPsych Advances, 21(2), 78–79. Long-term effects of antipsychotics","links":[{"url":"https://doi.org/10.1192/apt.bp.114.012591","label":"Long-term effects of antipsychotics"}],"url":"https://doi.org/10.1192/apt.bp.114.012591"},{"number":4,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#medication-induced-tardive-dyskinesia-review-update","text":"Cornett, E. M., Novitch, M., Kaye, A. D., Kata, V., & Kaye, A. M. (2017). Medication-Induced Tardive Dyskinesia: A Review and Update. The Ochsner Journal, 17(2), 162–174. National Library of Medicine","links":[{"url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5472076/","label":"National Library of Medicine"}],"url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5472076/"},{"number":5,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#management-serious-cardiac-adverse-effects-antipsychotic-medications","text":"Stoner, S. C. (2017). Management of serious cardiac adverse effects of antipsychotic medications. Mental Health Clinician, 7(6), 246–254. Management of serious cardiac adverse effects of antipsychotic medications","links":[{"url":"https://doi.org/10.9740/mhc.2017.11.246","label":"Management of serious cardiac adverse effects of antipsychotic medications"}],"url":"https://doi.org/10.9740/mhc.2017.11.246"},{"number":6,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#randomised-controlled-trial-gradual-antipsychotic-reduction-discontinuation-people-schiz","text":"Moncrieff, J., Lewis, G., Freemantle, N., Johnson, S., Barnes, T. R. E., Morant, N., Pinfold, V., Hunter, R., Kent, L. J., Smith, R., Darton, K., Horne, R., Crellin, N. E., Cooper, R. E., & Priebe, S. (2019). Randomised controlled trial of gradual antipsychotic reduction and discontinuation in people with schizophrenia and related disorders: the RADAR trial (Research into Antipsychotic Discontinuation and Reduction). BMJ Open, 9(11), e030912. Randomised controlled trial of gradual antipsychotic reduction and discontinuation in…","links":[{"url":"https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030912","label":"Randomised controlled trial of gradual antipsychotic reduction and discontinuation in…"}],"url":"https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030912"},{"number":7,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#hyperprolactinaemia-caused-antipsychotic-drugs","text":"Wieck, A. (2002). Hyperprolactinaemia caused by antipsychotic drugs. BMJ, 324(7332), 250–252. Hyperprolactinaemia caused by antipsychotic drugs","links":[{"url":"https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.324.7332.250","label":"Hyperprolactinaemia caused by antipsychotic drugs"}],"url":"https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.324.7332.250"},{"number":8,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics#www-medsafe-govt-nz","text":"Sexual Dysfunction Associated with Antidepressants and Antipsychotics. (n.d.). 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Learn more about potential long-term effects of antipsychotics here.","canonical":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics","robots":"index,follow","socialImage":{"url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/assets/social-tiles-20261006-dots/library.png","width":1200,"height":630,"alt":"MentalHealth.com — Library","type":"image/png","sitemapGroup":"library"}},"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/"},{"name":"Library","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library"},{"name":"Medications","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/medications"},{"name":"Long-Term Effects of Antipsychotics","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics"}],"subjectMatterExpert":{"name":"Leila Khurshid, Pharm.D.","url":"/people/leila-khurshid","profileId":"2317","topic":"medication","focus":"Clinical pharmacy and medication","selectionBasis":"Documented expertise in the existing published profile","reviewAttribution":false},"keyTakeaways":["Antipsychotics can control psychotic symptoms, but long-term treatment may also carry significant adverse effects.","Potential concerns include metabolic changes, movement disorders, cardiovascular effects, and hormonal or sexual difficulties.","Regular monitoring and shared decisions with a prescriber help balance symptom control against individual risks."],"introduction":{"html":"Antipsychotic drugs have been the frontline treatment for people diagnosed with psychosis or schizophrenia since their inception in the 1950s. [1]\n\nThere is a wealth of evidence supporting the efficacy of antipsychotics, over the short and mid-term, in managing psychotic symptoms. While this class of medication can improve sufferer’s daily functioning and quality of life, they can also have potential long-term effects.\n\nLong-term effects can vary based on the type of antipsychotic being taken, the individual’s health and a range of other factors. This article will delve into the long-term effects of antipsychotics.","text":"Antipsychotic drugs have been the frontline treatment for people diagnosed with psychosis or schizophrenia since their inception in the 1950s. [1] There is a wealth of evidence supporting the efficacy of antipsychotics, over the short and mid-term, in managing psychotic symptoms. While this class of medication can improve sufferer’s daily functioning and quality of life, they can also have potential long-term effects. Long-term effects can vary based on the type of antipsychotic being taken, the individual’s health and a range of other factors. This article will delve into the long-term effects of antipsychotics.","sourceField":"hero"},"navigation":[{"label":"What are the possible long-term effects of antipsychotics?","href":"#what-are-the-possible-long-term-effects-of-antipsychotics","heading":"What are the possible long-term effects of antipsychotics?"},{"label":"What to ask your doctor about long-term antipsychotic use","href":"#what-to-ask-your-doctor-about-long-term-antipsychotic-use","heading":"What to ask your doctor about long-term antipsychotic use"},{"label":"Final thoughts","href":"#final-thoughts","heading":"Final thoughts"}],"relatedCommunity":{"community":"/community/medications","basis":"topic match"},"referencePresentation":"Numbered author–date bibliography with linked source documents; n.d. denotes unavailable publication date.","collections":[]}