While the first-generation, older meds usually cost less, they can have different side effects than the newer antipsychotics. Some can cause higher levels of the hormone prolactin. This can affect sex drive, mood, menstrual cycles, and growth of breast tissue in both men and women.
One of the common side effects of newer antipsychotics is weight gain. Your loved one may also have trouble keeping his blood sugar and cholesterol levels under control.
One of the more serious side effects from long-term use of both the older and newer medications is a movement disorder called tardive dyskinesia. It makes your facial, tongue, and neck muscles move uncontrollably and can be permanent.
While both older and newer antipsychotics can cause tardive dyskinesia, researchers believe that the odds are much higher with the older antipsychotics.
Antipsychotics come with other side effects as well. Your loved one could have any of the following:
Weight gain
Sexual problems
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Restlessness
Dry mouth
Constipation
Nausea
Blurred vision
Low blood pressure
Seizures
Low white blood cell count