A new class of antipsychotic, research into Dopamine Partial Agonists is progressing rapidly and is looking very promising. More often than not, Dopamine Partial Agonists are labelled as atypical antipsychotics.
Aripiprazole
The most recent approved antipsychotic drug (at time of writing), aripiprazole is being heralded as a wonder drug. It appears to be more guarunteed to demonstrate positive results than other atypical antipsychotics and is generally well tolerated. Its stimulant effect also makes it useful in the treatment of melancholic disorders; on top of this, aripiprazole seems to have a solid antidepressant effect as well.
Unfortunately, as with any medication, aripiprazole does have downsides. The most prevelant of these is a particular side effect, namely unwanted movement which can included teeth chattering, restless legs and so on. The stimulant effect can meddle in ones sleep and can cause fatigue after prolonged actiovity.
Bifeprunox
This drug is still under development and is intended to be released in 2007. Its mode of action is slightly different to the original atypical antipsychotic drugs and is comparable to the drug aripiprazole of the same family. Trials have shown bifeprunox to be extremely well tolerated, exhibiting no weight gain side effects or impacact on blood sugar levels. Of all four atypical antipsychotics currently under developments, this drug is anticipated to be the most successful, both clinically and financially.
Norclozapine
No current data.