What it's used for
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Add-on for depression
- Often used off-label at low doses for sleep/anxiety
Read about: Depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Insomnia
How it works: Blocks dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors; strong antihistamine effect at low doses.
Common side effects
- Sedation
- Weight gain
- Raised blood sugar and lipids
- Dizziness
Tapering considerations
- Rebound insomnia, nausea and restlessness are common.
- Slow monthly reductions are described for longer-term users.
For prescribers & facilitators
- Monitor metabolic parameters while on treatment.
Sources
- 01A method for tapering antipsychotic treatment that may minimize the risk of relapse
Horowitz, Jauhar, Natesan, Murray & Taylor, Schizophrenia Bulletin, 2021
- 02The Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines
Horowitz & Taylor, Wiley-Blackwell, 2024