key term - Risperidone

Definition

Risperidone is an antipsychotic medication used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, which helps reduce hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.

Related terms

Dopamine:

A neurotransmitter involved in reward-motivated behavior and pleasure. In schizophrenia, an imbalance of dopamine can lead to symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions.

Hallucinations:

Perception of something that isn't actually there. People with schizophrenia may experience auditory or visual hallucinations.

Delusions:

False beliefs that are not based on reality. Common delusions in schizophrenia include paranoid beliefs or thoughts of grandeur.