neuroleptic
An older term for antipsychotic medications, emphasizing their neurological effects.
Full Definition
A traditional term for antipsychotic medications that emphasizes their ability to cause neurological effects, particularly extrapyramidal symptoms. The term 'neuroleptic' literally means 'seizing the neuron' and was commonly used before the distinction between typical and atypical antipsychotics became standard. While largely replaced by 'antipsychotic' in modern usage, 'neuroleptic' still appears in certain contexts, particularly when discussing side effects like neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Editors should be aware that the terms are often used interchangeably, though neuroleptic carries historical connotations.
Usage
Usage note: Consider using 'antipsychotic' in modern clinical writing unless specifically discussing historical context or neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
In Context
- "The patient developed neuroleptic malignant syndrome after starting haloperidol." — Emergency medicine report
- "Traditional neuroleptics carry a higher risk of movement disorders than newer agents." — Comparative effectiveness review