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

3778 Views

See similar Psychology A Level tutors

Related Psychology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Discuss what psychological research has told us about why people conform.


Evaluate the Strange Situation as a method for investigating types of attachment.


Describe and evaluate research into obedience.


Explain the main features of Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome?


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