title: The use of atypical antipsychotics in traumatic brain injury.
abstract: The use of antipsychotic medication in treating individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been controversial. Much of the caution derives from animal studies (and limited human data) with regard to typical antipsychotics. Of note, however, is that similar assumptions have been made about the newer generation of atypical antipsychotics as well. Because these agents have different mechanisms of action as well as different neurotransmitter targets, this may very well be unwarranted. In this article, mechanisms of action of typical and atypical antipsychotics are discussed, with particular attention paid to their use in TBI. Indications and contraindications are presented, and recommendations are made for the responsible prescribing of antipsychotic medications after TBI.
authors.affiliation: Traumatic Brain Injury Research, Kessler Medical Rehabilitation Research Education Corporation (KMRREC), West Orange, NJ, USA.
authors.forename: Elie Paul
authors.initials: EP
authors.lastname: Elovic
authors.forename: Ramon
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Lansang
authors.forename: Yali
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Li
authors.forename: Joseph H
authors.initials: JH
authors.lastname: Ricker
mesh_terms: D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D011595:Psychomotor Agitation / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D014150:Antipsychotic Agents