NiHowdy > Drug Classes > Atypical Antipsychotics

Browse Medications by Drug Class: Atypical Antipsychotics

Written by Amar Lunagaria

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Reviewed by James Wong

Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder

Published Jan 15, 2025

Fact checked

What are Atypical Antipsychotics?

Atypical antipsychotics, also known as second-generation antipsychotics, are medications primarily used to treat mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and treatment-resistant depression. They work by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and serotonin. A unique characteristic of atypical antipsychotics is their ability to alleviate symptoms of psychosis while causing fewer movement-related side effects than older, first-generation antipsychotics. NiHowdy ensures affordable access to atypical antipsychotics, empowering patients to effectively manage complex mental health conditions.

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List of drugs in Atypical Antipsychotics

Drug Name	More Information	NiHowdy Prices & Bitcoin Rebate

Abilify	Abilify Information	Abilify Pricing
Abilify Maintena	Abilify Maintena Information	Abilify Maintena Pricing
Abilify MyCite	Abilify MyCite Information	Abilify MyCite Pricing
Abilify MyCite Maintenance Kit	Abilify MyCite Maintenance Kit Information	Abilify MyCite Maintenance Kit Pricing
Abilify MyCite Starter Kit	Abilify MyCite Starter Kit Information	Abilify MyCite Starter Kit Pricing
ARIPiprazole	ARIPiprazole Information	ARIPiprazole Pricing
Aristada	Aristada Information	Aristada Pricing
Aristada Initio	Aristada Initio Information	Aristada Initio Pricing
Asenapine Maleate	Asenapine Maleate Information	Asenapine Maleate Pricing
Caplyta	Caplyta Information	Caplyta Pricing
Clozapine	Clozapine Information	Clozapine Pricing
Clozaril	Clozaril Information	Clozaril Pricing
Fanapt	Fanapt Information	Fanapt Pricing
Fanapt Titration Pack	Fanapt Titration Pack Information	Fanapt Titration Pack Pricing
Geodon	Geodon Information	Geodon Pricing
Invega	Invega Information	Invega Pricing
Invega Hafyera	Invega Hafyera Information	Invega Hafyera Pricing
Invega Sustenna	Invega Sustenna Information	Invega Sustenna Pricing
Invega Trinza	Invega Trinza Information	Invega Trinza Pricing
Latuda	Latuda Information	Latuda Pricing
Lurasidone HCl	Lurasidone HCl Information	Lurasidone HCl Pricing
Lybalvi	Lybalvi Information	Lybalvi Pricing
Nuplazid	Nuplazid Information	Nuplazid Pricing
OLANZapine	OLANZapine Information	OLANZapine Pricing
OLANZapine-FLUoxetine HCl (Generic Symbyax)	OLANZapine-FLUoxetine HCl (Generic Symbyax) Information	OLANZapine-FLUoxetine HCl (Generic Symbyax) Pricing
Paliperidone ER	Paliperidone ER Information	Paliperidone ER Pricing
Perseris	Perseris Information	Perseris Pricing
QUEtiapine Fumarate	QUEtiapine Fumarate Information	QUEtiapine Fumarate Pricing
QUEtiapine Fumarate ER	QUEtiapine Fumarate ER Information	QUEtiapine Fumarate ER Pricing
Rexulti	Rexulti Information	Rexulti Pricing
RisperDAL	RisperDAL Information	RisperDAL Pricing
RisperDAL Consta	RisperDAL Consta Information	RisperDAL Consta Pricing
risperiDONE	risperiDONE Information	risperiDONE Pricing
Saphris	Saphris Information	Saphris Pricing
Secuado	Secuado Information	Secuado Pricing
SEROquel	SEROquel Information	SEROquel Pricing
SEROquel XR	SEROquel XR Information	SEROquel XR Pricing
Symbyax	Symbyax Information	Symbyax Pricing
Versacloz	Versacloz Information	Versacloz Pricing
Vraylar	Vraylar Information	Vraylar Pricing
Ziprasidone HCl	Ziprasidone HCl Information	Ziprasidone HCl Pricing
Ziprasidone Mesylate	Ziprasidone Mesylate Information	Ziprasidone Mesylate Pricing
ZyPREXA	ZyPREXA Information	ZyPREXA Pricing
ZyPREXA Relprevv	ZyPREXA Relprevv Information	ZyPREXA Relprevv Pricing
ZyPREXA Zydis	ZyPREXA Zydis Information	ZyPREXA Zydis Pricing

Brief history about Atypical Antipsychotics?

Atypical antipsychotics were introduced in the 1990s as a safer alternative to first-generation antipsychotics, which often caused significant movement disorders. Clozapine was the first atypical antipsychotic, followed by others like risperidone, olanzapine, and aripiprazole. These medications represented a significant advancement in mental health care, offering improved symptom management with a better side effect profile. NiHowdy simplifies access to these life-changing medications, ensuring affordability for all patients.

How do Atypical Antipsychotics work?

Atypical antipsychotics work by modulating dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly blocking dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. This dual action helps reduce psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions, while improving mood and cognitive function. For example, aripiprazole partially activates dopamine receptors, offering a balanced approach to symptom management. NiHowdy provides affordable access to atypical antipsychotics, ensuring patients receive effective treatment for their mental health needs.

What are Atypical Antipsychotics used to treat?

Schizophrenia

Atypical antipsychotics like risperidone and olanzapine are the cornerstone of schizophrenia treatment, helping to alleviate positive symptoms (hallucinations and delusions) and negative symptoms (emotional withdrawal and lack of motivation).

Bipolar Disorder

Medications like quetiapine and lurasidone are used to manage manic, depressive, and mixed episodes in patients with bipolar disorder, improving mood stability.

Treatment-Resistant Depression

Atypical antipsychotics, such as aripiprazole and brexpiprazole, are used as adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder when standard antidepressants are insufficient.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Risperidone and aripiprazole are FDA-approved for managing irritability and aggression associated with autism spectrum disorder.

Tourette Syndrome

In cases of Tourette syndrome, atypical antipsychotics like risperidone are used to reduce the frequency and severity of tics.

Agitation Associated with Dementia

Certain atypical antipsychotics are used to manage agitation and aggression in patients with dementia, though their use is closely monitored due to potential risks.

Who should consider Atypical Antipsychotics medications?

Adults

Atypical antipsychotics are commonly prescribed for adults with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or treatment-resistant depression. They provide effective symptom relief and improve quality of life. NiHowdy ensures adults can access these treatments affordably and conveniently.

Children

In pediatric cases, atypical antipsychotics may be used to treat conditions like autism-related irritability, Tourette syndrome, or early-onset schizophrenia. Doses are carefully adjusted based on weight and age to ensure safety and efficacy. NiHowdy supports families with cost-effective solutions and reliable resources for managing pediatric mental health conditions.

Seniors

Seniors with conditions like agitation associated with dementia or schizophrenia benefit significantly from atypical antipsychotics. However, older adults require careful monitoring for potential side effects, such as metabolic changes or increased fall risk. NiHowdy simplifies access to atypical antipsychotics for seniors, offering affordable options tailored to their unique needs.

Are Atypical Antipsychotics safe?

Atypical antipsychotics are generally safe when prescribed and monitored appropriately. Common side effects include weight gain, drowsiness, and dry mouth. Rare but serious risks include metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and movement disorders like tardive dyskinesia. Regular monitoring of weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels is essential. NiHowdy provides safe and affordable access to atypical antipsychotics, supported by expert guidance to manage these risks responsibly.

Can I take Atypical Antipsychotics during pregnancy?

The safety of atypical antipsychotics during pregnancy depends on the specific medication and condition being treated. Some atypical antipsychotics, like quetiapine, are considered safer options, while others require caution. Patients should consult their healthcare provider to carefully weigh the risks and benefits. NiHowdy provides cost-effective access to expert guidance and alternative treatments for pregnant patients.

Are Atypical Antipsychotics safe to take while lactating?

Some atypical antipsychotics, such as olanzapine, are considered safe during lactation with appropriate monitoring, as they pass into breast milk in minimal amounts. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for specific recommendations. NiHowdy ensures affordable access to trusted information and safe treatment options for breastfeeding parents.

Are Atypical Antipsychotics controlled substances?

Atypical antipsychotics are not classified as controlled substances but require a prescription due to their potential for serious side effects and the need for close monitoring. NiHowdy simplifies the prescription process, ensuring patients receive these critical medications affordably and responsibly.

Side effects of Atypical Antipsychotics?

Common side effects of atypical antipsychotics include weight gain, drowsiness, dry mouth, and constipation. Rare but serious risks include metabolic syndrome, tardive dyskinesia, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Patients experiencing severe side effects should consult their healthcare provider immediately. NiHowdy helps patients manage these risks with expert-backed support and affordable care options.

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Cost considerations and insurance coverage for Atypical Antipsychotics

The cost of atypical antipsychotics varies depending on the specific medication and formulation (e.g., oral, extended-release, or injectable). Generic options like risperidone and quetiapine are generally affordable, and many insurance plans cover these medications for approved indications. NiHowdy offers discounts, rebates, and Bitcoin rewards to ensure these treatments remain accessible and cost-effective.

How do I get rebates on Atypical Antipsychotics?

NiHowdy's Bitcoin rebate program for atypical antipsychotic prescriptions offers patients a unique opportunity to save on healthcare costs while earning potential financial growth. This innovative approach makes managing mental health conditions both affordable and rewarding, improving access to critical care while building long-term value.