antipsychotic

[an-tee-sahy-kot-ik, an-tahy-]

adjective

1. of or relating to any of various substances used in the treatment of psychosis, especially schizophrenia, and acute or severe states of mania, depression, or paranoia.

noun

1. Also called neuroleptic. Also called major tranquilizer. any such substance, as the phenothiazines.

antipsychotic

/ ˌæntɪsaɪˈkɒtɪk /

adjective

1. preventing or treating psychosis

noun

1. any antipsychotic drug, such as chlorpromazine: used to treat such conditions as schizophrenia

Word History and Origins

Origin of antipsychotic¹

First recorded in 1950–55; anti- + psychotic

Example Sentences

He says the antipsychotics and antidepressants make him feel "zombified" and his memories are clouded.

From BBC

The inquest heard from medical professionals who said that in most cases, patients coming off antipsychotic medications transition to another one, rather than ceasing treatment altogether.

From BBC

One night, a nurse gave him the painkiller Norco, the antipsychotic Haldol, the sedative Ativan and the antihistamine Benadryl, according to the report from the Department of Public Health.

From Los Angeles Times

HHS is ordered to "assess the prevalence of and threat posed by the prescription of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, stimulants, and weight-loss drugs."

From Salon

His father Roy Cole said the GP declined to renew a prescription for antipsychotic pills, leaving his son "crying" and "in the worst state I've ever seen him".

From BBC