Atypical antipsychotics

Atypical antipsychotics block dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain. They treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and are added to antidepressants when depression does not respond to them alone. Weight gain, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol are major concerns, so weight, glucose, and lipids are monitored. They cause fewer movement disorders than older antipsychotics, but sedation, dizziness on standing, and rarely neuroleptic malignant syndrome can occur.

• ClozapineKnown brand names include Clozaril.
• QuetiapineKnown brand names include Seroquel.