Antipsychotic medicines that might be used to treat
symptoms of
borderline personality disorder include olanzapine
(Zyprexa), quetiapine (Seroquel), and risperidone (Risperdal).
These medicines help stabilize certain brain chemicals called
neurotransmitters, which control emotions and
behavior. Balancing these brain chemicals may help you avoid impulsive and reckless behaviors. Antipsychotic medicines also help treat
symptoms of
psychosis in people who have borderline personality
disorder.
Side effects
Olanzapine. The
most common side effects of olanzapine are dry mouth, constipation, weight
gain, drowsiness, and shakiness. This medicine can sometimes cause slurred
speech or low blood pressure that makes you feel dizzy when you stand up. Less
common side effects include headaches or a skin rash caused by an allergic
reaction.
Quetiapine. This medicine can cause side effects
such as tiredness, headaches, dizziness, rash, fever, weight gain, dry mouth,
and other flu-like symptoms.
Risperidone. This medicine may
cause sleepiness, weight gain, and breast tenderness. Unusual side effects
include headaches, constipation,
decreased sexual desire and function, an irregular heartbeat, and an allergic reaction that causes a skin rash. Risperidone
may also be linked to an increased risk of stroke in older adults.
What to think about
Olanzapine, quetiapine, and risperidone may be associated with an
increased risk of adult-onset diabetes and high cholesterol. Your doctor may
watch your blood sugar and cholesterol levels if you are taking any of these
medicines. All of these medicines carry a small risk of a movement disorder
called
tardive dyskinesia.
The makers of
Risperdal (risperidone) have issued a warning stating that older adults who are
taking this medicine may have an increased risk of stroke. Talk with your doctor about this risk before you take Risperdal.
Before you take
olanzapine, quetiapine, or risperidone, be sure to tell your doctor whether you
have other medical problems. This may not be the right type of medicine for
you. These medicines typically are not recommended if you are pregnant or have
had a condition called
neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Antipsychotics should be started at a low dosage. To avoid negative drug
interactions, talk with your doctor about all other medicines you are taking.
If you are taking an antipsychotic medicine, your doctor may need to test your blood
now and then to check how well your liver is working. Your blood pressure
should also be checked.
Avoid herbal stimulants (such as ma huang,
ginseng, or kola) while taking an antipsychotic medicine.
Talk to
your doctor or pharmacist about drinking grapefruit juice while you are taking
an antipsychotic medicine. Grapefruit juice can increase the level of these
medicines in your blood. Having too much medicine in your blood increases your
chances of having serious side effects.