Final answer:
Antipsychotics, including phenothiazines and newer generation drugs like clozapine and risperidone, are used to treat schizophrenia by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. These drugs help manage symptoms of psychosis but are not cures. Mood stabilizers can also be used in bipolar disorder treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of drugs used to reduce symptoms of severe psychological disorders such as schizophrenia are known as antipsychotics or neuroleptics. These medications are designed to manage symptoms including delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thoughts. Antipsychotics function by blocking dopamine receptors, thereby decreasing dopamine neurotransmission in the brain, which can reduce psychotic symptoms. There are other treatments for schizophrenia which may include psychotherapy, and, in some cases, additional methods like electroconvulsive therapy.
The most common classes of antipsychotics include phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine, and newer generation drugs like clozapine and risperidone. These drugs have been shown to make patients less agitated and more responsive, while diminishing aggressive behavior and psychotic symptoms over time. However, these medications are not cures and most patients need to continue treatment throughout their lives. Mood stabilizers such as lithium are also used in conjunction with antipsychotics in the treatment of bipolar disorder, which can share some symptomatology with schizophrenia.