What is a common treatment for acute agitated psychosis in individuals with schizophrenia?

Atypical antipsychotics are commonly used as a first-line treatment for acute agitated psychosis in individuals with schizophrenia. These medications, which include drugs like risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine, can quickly help manage symptoms such as aggression, agitation, and hallucinations, providing rapid stabilization for the patient. They tend to have a more favorable side effect profile compared to older, typical antipsychotics, making them a preferred choice in emergent situations.

Typical first-generation antipsychotics are indeed utilized in the treatment of schizophrenia but are generally less favored in acute settings due to their propensity to cause extrapyramidal symptoms and other side effects. Behavioral therapy, while beneficial in the overall treatment of schizophrenia, does not address immediate symptoms of psychosis effectively. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, are not indicated for managing acute psychotic symptoms. Thus, the use of atypical antipsychotics provides a more rapid and effective management option for individuals experiencing acute agitation related to psychosis.