Neuroleptic drugs are the drugs of choice to relieve

UPPSC 2022

Pharmacology

Easy

Appeared in: UPPSC 2022

Explanation

Neuroleptic drugs are also known as antipsychotics, and their primary therapeutic use is the treatment of psychosis.
Psychosis is a condition characterized by a loss of contact with reality, manifesting as symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thought, which are commonly seen in disorders like schizophrenia.
The mechanism of action involves blocking dopamine receptors (specifically D2 receptors) in the brain, which helps to reduce the intensity of these psychotic symptoms.
While some newer antipsychotics have other uses, their main purpose remains the management of psychosis.

Option B: Depression is primarily treated with antidepressant medications, such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) or Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), which act on different neurotransmitter systems.
Option C: Excessive activity, particularly when associated with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is typically managed with central nervous system (CNS) stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamines.
Option D: The management of narcotic (opioid) withdrawal involves specific medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and clonidine, which are designed to reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Primary Indication of Neuroleptic Drugs as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A key nursing responsibility is monitoring for adverse effects. For patients on typical antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol), nurses must be vigilant for extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) such as acute dystonia, akathisia, and parkinsonism.
For patients on atypical antipsychotics (e.g., olanzapine, risperidone), nurses should monitor for signs of metabolic syndrome by tracking weight, blood glucose levels, and lipid profiles.
Patient education is vital. Nurses should teach patients and families about the importance of medication adherence and to report any distressing side effects immediately rather than stopping the medication abruptly.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question: 'Neuroleptic drugs'.
Recall the common synonym for neuroleptics, which is 'antipsychotics'.
Access your knowledge about the primary function of antipsychotic medications. Their name itself gives a clue: 'anti-psychotic'.
Evaluate the given options. 'Psychosis' directly matches the primary indication for antipsychotic drugs.
Briefly consider the other options to confirm they are incorrect. Recall that depression is treated with antidepressants, hyperactivity (ADHD) with stimulants, and narcotic withdrawal with specific agents like methadone. This confirms that psychosis is the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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