Treating Depression with Antipsychotics

Antipsychotics are medications primarily used to treat symptoms of psychosis, such as delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thinking. However, some atypical antipsychotics have also been approved by the FDA to treat depression, either alone or in combination with other antidepressants. These medications are believed to work by blocking the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin, which can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

However, the use of antipsychotics for depression is generally reserved for cases where other treatments have failed or are not effective. This is because antipsychotics can have serious side effects, including weight gain, diabetes, and movement disorders such as tardive dyskinesia. Therefore, these medications are usually only used when the benefits outweigh the risks and under the close supervision of a healthcare provider.