Psychopharmacology

This chapter provides an overview of the principles of psychopharmacology, which is the study of medications used to treat psychiatric disorders. Important information is discussed about medication indications, interactions, side effects, precautions, consumer experience and education, and the issues of adherence and as-needed or pro re nata (pm) medication administration.

Using medications that have a demonstrated ability to relieve the symptoms of psychiatric disorders has become widespread since the mid-1950s. The pharmacological agents used in current psychiatric practice are the antianxiety sedatives, antidepressants, mood-stabilising medications, antipsychotic medications and cognitive enhancers. Collectively, these medications are referred to as 'psychotropic medications' and are the focus of this chapter.