Neuroleptic
Pronunciation: NYUR-oh-lep-tik
An older term for antipsychotic medications, particularly referring to typical or first-generation antipsychotics.
Full Definition
Neuroleptic is a traditional term for antipsychotic medications, derived from the Greek words meaning 'to take hold of the nervous system.' While sometimes used interchangeably with antipsychotic, neuroleptic more specifically refers to typical or first-generation antipsychotics that block dopamine receptors and often cause extrapyramidal side effects. The term emphasizes the neurological effects of these medications. In modern psychiatric documentation, 'antipsychotic' is generally preferred, though 'neuroleptic' may appear in discussions of side effects like neuroleptic malignant syndrome or when referencing older literature.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate in compound terms: 'neuroleptic-induced.' Prefer 'antipsychotic' in modern documentation.
In Context
- "The patient developed neuroleptic-induced parkinsonism after starting haloperidol." — Adverse event report
- "Consider switching from typical neuroleptic to atypical antipsychotic to reduce movement disorder risk." — Medication review