Definition

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

Usage

• Neuroleptic agents are prescribed by psychiatrists.
• The primary function of a neuroleptic agent is to manage psychosis.
• Treatment often involves finding the correct dosage of a neuroleptic agent.

Examples

• The psychiatrist adjusted the patient's neuroleptic agent to better control the symptoms.
• Older neuroleptic agents are sometimes associated with more severe side effects than newer atypical antipsychotics.
• Compliance with taking the prescribed neuroleptic agent is crucial for long-term stability.

Advanced Usage

• "First-generation (typical) neuroleptic agent": Refers to older antipsychotics like haloperidol or chlorpromazine, which primarily block dopamine D2 receptors and are more likely to cause extrapyramidal side effects.
• "Second-generation (atypical) neuroleptic agent": Refers to newer antipsychotics like risperidone or olanzapine, which act on multiple neurotransmitter systems and have a different side-effect profile.

Variants and Related Words

• Neuroleptic (noun/adjective): The more common short form; can be used identically (e.g., "neuroleptic drugs").
• Antipsychotic (noun/adjective): A broader, more modern synonym for neuroleptic agent.
• Major tranquilizer (noun): An older, less precise term for the same class of drugs.

Synonyms

• Antipsychotic
• Major tranquilizer (dated)
• Antipsychotic drug

Notes on Meaning

While "neuroleptic agent" is a precise clinical term, in contemporary medical practice, the word "antipsychotic" is more frequently used. The term "neuroleptic" (from Greek, meaning "to take hold of the nerve") historically emphasized the neurological side effects, such as slowed motor function.

Noun

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