Definition

Noun: - A type of medication, specifically a major tranquilizer or neuroleptic, used in the treatment of psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia) to reduce agitation, delusions, and hallucinations by producing a calming or sedative effect.

Usage

• As a subject: The antipsychotic agent was effective in managing her symptoms.
• As an object: The doctor prescribed a new antipsychotic agent.
• With modifiers: The antipsychotic agent has fewer side effects.

Examples

• Haloperidol is a typical antipsychotic agent.
• The introduction of a new antipsychotic agent improved the patient's quality of life.
• Treatment often begins with a low dose of an antipsychotic agent.

Advanced Usage

• In clinical contexts: The choice of an antipsychotic agent depends on the patient's symptom profile and tolerance for side effects.
• In pharmacological discussion: This antipsychotic agent acts primarily as a dopamine receptor antagonist.

Variants and Related Words

• Antipsychotic (noun/adjective): A more common shorter form. (e.g., She takes an .)
• Neuroleptic (noun/adjective): A technical synonym often used interchangeably with antipsychotic agent.
• Major tranquilizer: An older term for antipsychotic agent.

Synonyms

• Neuroleptic
• Major tranquilizer
• Antipsychotic drug

Related Phrases

• Atypical antipsychotic (agent): A newer class of antipsychotic medications with a different side effect profile.
• First-generation antipsychotic (agent): Refers to typical or conventional antipsychotics.

Notes

The term "agent" in "antipsychotic agent" specifically denotes a chemical or drug substance used to produce a therapeutic effect. It is a formal term common in medical and pharmacological writing.

Noun

1. tranquilizer used to treat psychotic conditions when a calming effect is desired