antipsychotic

American  

[an-tee-sahy-kot-ik, an-tahy-] / ˌæn ti saɪˈkɒt ɪk, ˌæn taɪ- /

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.

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noun

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

antipsychotic British  

/ ˌæntɪsaɪˈkɒtɪk /

adjective

1. preventing or treating psychosis

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noun

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

Etymology

Origin of antipsychotic

First recorded in 1950–55; anti- + psychotic

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

antipsychotic

Another was the discovery that Thorazine, the first antipsychotic medication administered to schizophrenic patients, had been shown to block dopamine activity—and, in so doing, melted away delusions and hallucinations.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 28, 2026

Risperidone is a powerful antipsychotic often prescribed to dementia patients who experience severe agitation or aggressive behavior.

From Science Daily ● Mar. 8, 2026

Patients can be supported and treated with a mix of antipsychotic medications, talking therapies and family support.

From BBC ● Dec. 10, 2025

The company made one of its largest acquisitions in 2023 when it spent $14 billion to buy Karuna Therapeutics, which discovered the antipsychotic.

From MarketWatch ● Dec. 3, 2025

An assortment of antipsychotic medicines was prescribed, and he improved gradually—but never enough, apparently, to merit discharge.

From "The Gene" by Siddhartha Mukherjee