Psychopharmaceuticals: Uses and Abuses

Abstract

In cases of mental disturbances, as in other fields of medicine, referral to a specialist should be made if there is a serious question of diagnosis or the need for emergency treatment or if there is no response to therapy within an appropriate period. The psychiatrist should be utilized exactly as should a medical specialist in any other field.

A classification of pharmaceuticals influencing psychologic states is presented, together with alternate terminology, a listing of specific drugs in the various groups and their dosages, remarks on the advantages and disadvantages of the use of combinations of psychopharmaceuticals, and an outline of side effects and their management.