Neuroleptics classification

Because of multiple receptor actions, which occur at different concentrations, different neuroleptics have different action profiles. There are many classifications for neuroleptic drugs, the least useful of which is probably based on their chemical structure. Other classifications include linear classifications based on the propensity to cause EPS, or multidimensional ones such as the Liege star which combines information on three positive effects (anti-autistic, antiproductive, antipsychotic), and three negative (hypotensive, extrapyramidal, sedative). In a general way, the more sedative neuroleptics such as levomepromazine, used more to treat acute agitation states, cause more hypotension related to alpha blockade, whereas those that act best on delirium (productive states) such as haloperidol tend to cause more EPS. 

Figure 2. Classification scheme for neuroleptics. (Reproduced with permission from Ref. 1. Copyright 1973, Pergamon Press Ltd.)...

The neuroleptic drugs can be divided into five major classifications based on the structure of the drug (Figure 13.1). This classification is of modest importance, because within each chemical group, different side chains have profound effects on the potencies of the drugs. The management of... 

Krijzer FNCM, van der Molen R (1987) Classification of psychotropic drugs by rat EEG analysis the anxiolytic profile in comparison to the antidepressant and neuroleptic profile. Neuropsychobiology 18 51-56 Krijzer F, Koopman P, Olivier B (1993) Classification of psychotropic drugs based on pharmaco-electrocorticographic studies in vigilance-controlled rats. Neuropsychobiology 28 122-137... 

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