What type of drugs might be added to antipsychotic therapy to manage side effects?

When managing the side effects of antipsychotic therapy, beta-blockers may be added for their effectiveness in addressing certain symptoms, particularly those related to anxiety and agitation. Antipsychotics are known to cause extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) and can also lead to increased heart rate and other cardiovascular symptoms. Beta-blockers help to mitigate these side effects by reducing sympathetic nervous system activity, which can improve overall patient comfort and adherence to the antipsychotic regimen.

While antidepressants and anticonvulsants can sometimes play a role in the overall treatment plan for individuals with co-occurring mood disorders or seizures, respectively, they are not specifically indicated for the management of antipsychotic-induced side effects. Stimulants are generally contraindicated in patients receiving antipsychotic medications due to the potential for worsening psychotic symptoms. Thus, the addition of beta-blockers specifically targets the management of anxiety and agitation while helping to alleviate cardiovascular side effects associated with antipsychotic medications.