What is the difference between atypical and typical antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia?

Atypical antipsychotics are known as second generation antipsychotics as they came about in the late 90's they treat both the positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. An example is clozapine. It works on both D2 and serotonin receptorsTypical antipsychotics on the other hand are first generation as they came about earlier. They have more severe side effects and only work on the D2 receptors. An example would be clorpromazine.

AS
Answered by Anjie S. Psychology tutor

3970 Views

See similar Psychology A Level tutors

Related Psychology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe Classical Conditioning and give an example of how it explains phobias


John has been feeling stressed in the past few weeks as he is planning Christmas at his home on top of stress at work due to deadlines in projects with his colleagues. using research, explain why John is feeling stressed.


What is CBT and how can it be used to treat depression?


What are the key assumptions of the biological approach in Psychology?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning