Describe common drug therapies. In what cases are drug therapies best utilized?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Essay should include:

Drug therapy is one of a number of biological or medical approaches to treating psychological disorders. Antianxiety drugs, such as Valium and Serax, are used for generalized anxiety and for panic disorders. These drugs act on the central nervous system, reducing heart rate, respiration, nervousness and tension. Anti-psychotic drugs, such as Thorazine and Clozaril, block dopamine receptors in the brain, thereby reducing the agitation, delusions and hallucinations of those with schizophrenia. Antidepressants work by increasing levels of the neurotransmitters noradrenaline or serotonin. These drugs also have proved beneficial in people who have eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and social phobias. SSRI's (selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors) such as Prozac and Zoloft, block the reuptake of serotonin, causing it to remain in the synaptic cleft longer. Lithium is given to those with bipolar disorder. It flattens the cycles of manic behavior and depression. Drug therapies are most often warranted in cases of severe psychological disorders. In other cases, such as with individuals who have depression, cognitive therapy may be as good as or better than antidepressants. Cognitive therapy teaches individuals coping mechanisms, and as such, may be a complement to the use of antidepressants. The combination of antidepressants and cognitive-behavioral therapy may also provide benefit to those with panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and bulimia. In some instances, psychotherapy alone may provide the best outcomes for patients, as therapy provides the patient with an arsenal of coping skills to overcome problems whereas medications alone do not.
Chapter 14: Social Psychology

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