Treatment side effects
The side effects of antipsychotics are often transient, although there are long-term complications that can develop well after starting medication. Considering the time of onset of side effects can help to distinguish true side effects from symptoms of schizophrenia. Sexual dysfunction, including loss of libido, is a known side effect of antipsychotics.
However, negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as social withdrawal and poor motivation, may also lead to loss of libido. If there are side effects, the preference of the individual should be sought before recommending a dose or drug change. If the antipsychotic is effective, the person with schizophrenia may decide they would prefer to tolerate the side effect rather than risk a trial of an alternate antipsychotic that is not as effective.
Useful websites
- MIND €“ provides advice and support for anyone experiencing a mental health problem
- Rethink Mental Illness €“ works to help everyone affected by severe mental illness, including schizophrenia, achieve a better quality of life
- Time to Change €“ led by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness, this is England's biggest programme to challenge mental health stigma and discrimination. Online resources and patient stories are available
- Choice and Medication €“ offers information about medications used in the mental health setting to help people make informed decisions
- Hearing Voices Network €“ information, support and understanding for people who hear voices and those who support them.
Record your learning
Once you have read this article, use the following CPD questions to help you reflect on what you have learned and how it might affect your everyday work. Remember to record your learning on the GPhC website if you are registered. Otherwise, it is good practice to record it in your ongoing learning and development folder.
- What did I learn that was new? (Evaluate)
- How have I put this into practice? (Provide examples of how learning has been applied.) (Evaluate)
- Do I need to learn anything else in this area? (Reflect)