All You Need To Know About
 Medications for Psychosis

(4/25) Medication and other medical healing methods such as medical marijuana have become super popular for many mental health conditions in the last few years. When it comes to psychosis, a distressing symptom of many mental health conditions, medication is available as a treatment option.

Psychosis can be seen in conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and schizoaffective disorder. It can also be seen in some anxiety disorders and sometimes on its own.

As a symptom, it's important that when you do select a medication to treat your psychosis that you also consider the mental health diagnosis you have and the other symptoms you want to treat. Some medications have distressing side effects, so it's always important to speak to a trained medical professional before trying medication or changing your dosage.

What Types of Medication Are Used for Psychosis?

The primary type of medication used to treat psychosis is an antipsychotic medication. There are many of these medications, and they target the dopamine in your brain and change the chemical compounds to reduce symptoms of psychosis and other distressing feelings.

Depending on your condition, your doctor may recommend one over another. For example, Lamictal is a great medication for those with bipolar disorder and epilepsy. However, it shouldn't be used for those with schizophrenia.

Some of the common names you might hear from your doctor include:

• Lamictal
• Seroquel
• Risperdal
• Zyprexa
• Abilify
• Clozapine
• Haldol

What Should You Consider Before Choosing a Medication?

Before deciding to take an antipsychotic, you should consider its side effects, your own medical history, your sensitivity to medication, and whether or not a medication can work for you or not.

Some medication management practitioners will send you for blood testing to find a genetic match for the best medication for you to use. Knowing which medications that you'll respond best to is a great way to get treatment quickly.

You'll also want to speak to your doctor in detail about the symptoms you're experiencing. If you have a therapist, your therapist can provide a report to your doctor about your diagnosis and recommended treatment.

You also have a say in what you take. If you don't like the sound of the side effects of one medication, feel free to ask for another. You can also let your doctor know if something isn't working as you hoped it would. It's up to you and your doctor to come up with a combination that works for you.

Common Side Effects of Antipsychotics

Some of the most common side effects of antipsychotics include:

• Drowsiness
• Weight gain
• Increased thirst or hunger
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Feeling unable to wake up in the morning
• Insomnia
• Blurred vision
• Libido changes
• Headaches

If you experience any severe symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pains, tightening of your chest, black tongue, a rapidly spreading rash, or anything out of the ordinary, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room and notify your doctor immediately.

Other Methods of Healing Psychosis

If you're not sure that medication is the right option for you, you're in luck. There are many other methods of treating the symptoms of psychosis, whether it's from schizophrenia, mania, or anxiety.

Here are some of the top methods to try:

• Medical marijuana or CBD oil
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Trauma therapy for trauma-related psychosis and fear
• Online talk therapy
• Group therapy
• Addiction treatment (if you're struggling with addiction)

You're not alone, and there are options to help you get through your fears. If you are struggling to connect to reality, asking the opinion of a professional and a close friend in your life can help you get some clarity.