quetiapine

n. an atypical antipsychotic used for the management of psychosis and schizophrenia. As with conventional antipsychotics, its therapeutic effects are in part related to its ability to block D2 dopamine receptors (see dopamine-receptor antagonist); however, it differs from the older agents in its ability to also block 5-HT₂ serotonin receptors. It is also approved for treatment of bipolar disorder and (in its extended-release formulation) as an adjunct to antidepressant drugs for unipolar depression. Sedation is a common adverse effect; thyroid dysfunction, weight gain, and electrocardiographic effects are more rarely observed. U.S. trade name: Seroquel.

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Psychology term of the day

January 19th 2025

life review

the process whereby individuals, especially older adults, reflect upon and analyze past life experiences. Life review, or analytical reminiscence, is often made use of in counseling older adults with symptoms of mild depression or people of any age with terminal illness, sometimes as an adjunct to psychotherapy. [defined in 1961 by U.S. gerontologist and psychiatrist Robert N. Butler (1927–2010)]