Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about treatment for psychosis
There’s no one “right” medication – just the one that best meets your needs and goals. Your care team might suggest one medication over another based on:
- Your symptoms and/or your experience of distress
- Your preferences (e.g., pills vs. injections, side effect concerns)
- How you’ve responded to medication in the past
- Other conditions like mood symptoms or anxiety
You should feel informed and supported in making the decision to begin medication. Asking questions and sharing your goals can help your care team find a medication that feels manageable, effective, and aligned with what matters to you. We’ve answered a few common questions for you below.
> What are antipsychotic medications, and why are they used?
Antipsychotic medications are one treatment tool that can help people feel more grounded, reduce distressing symptoms, and support recovery from psychosis. They’re often used alongside therapy and other supports—like family education, supported education and employment, and peer support—to help people feel better and get back to the things that matter to them.
These medications can help support the brain’s natural chemistry—especially a chemical called dopamine, which can become unbalanced during a period of psychosis. By helping to restore that balance, they can reduce stress and confusion and allow thinking to become clearer and more organized.
> What are the main types of antipsychotic medications?
Antipsychotics will typically be recommended by your doctor or prescriber based on your needs and preferences. They will explain the options and involve you in deciding what feels right for you.
There are many types of antipsychotics available. We list a few of the most commonly used medications in early psychosis care today. These tend to have fewer movement-related side effects than older medications and some may also help with mood or anxiety symptoms.
Examples include:
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Aripiprazole (Abilify) – often chosen for its lower risk of weight gain
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Risperidone (Risperdal) – commonly used and well-studied
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Olanzapine (Zyprexa) – effective for many, but may cause weight gain
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Lurasidone (Latuda) – may have fewer sedating effects
- Quetiapine (Seroquel) – sometimes helpful when sleep is a concern
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Clozapine (Clozaril) – usually used only if other medications haven’t worked; requires regular blood tests
In some cases, additional medications may also be recommended to help manage co-occurring health conditions, including anxiety and depression, for example.
> What if I decide not to take medication as part of my treatment?
If you’re thinking about not taking medication, talk openly with your care team about your concerns. They can help you understand the risks and benefits, explore other supports (like therapy or peer support), and come up with a plan that feels right for you.
Some people decide not to use medication, or to use it only during certain times. Others find that a combination of meds and therapy works best. There is no one-size-fits-all path, and each participant is encouraged to explore treatment options and make their own decisions about their care plan.
> How do I take antipsychotic medications?
Antipsychotic medications can differ in how they’re taken and how they work in the body. Most come in one of two forms:
- Daily pills or tablets: taken by mouth once or twice a day
- Long-acting injectables (LAIs): given as a shot every few weeks or months
Your care team will work with you to find an option that fits your goals, preferences, and lifestyle. Oral pills and long-acting injectables both work, but injectables may help more with consistency and preventing hospital visits for some people—especially if remembering daily doses is a challenge. Read more about the pros and considerations of each in the boxes below.
> Will I need to take medication forever?
Not necessarily. Some people take medication for a short time, while others stay on it longer to help prevent symptoms from returning. The length of time depends on many factors—like how you’re doing, how your body responds, and what your goals are.
If you’re thinking about stopping medications, your care team can help you make a gradual, supported plan to lower the risk of relapse or other side effects.
> What if I experience side effects? How are they managed?
It’s common to have questions or concerns about side effects—especially when starting a new medication. Everyone reacts differently. Some people experience very few side effects, while others notice changes that feel uncomfortable or frustrating.
Many side effects improve with time, especially in the first few weeks as your body adjusts. Others may stick around longer but can often be managed with support.
Some of the more common side effects include:
- Weight gain or changes in blood sugar or cholesterol
- Muscle stiffness, shakiness, or restlessness
- Sleepiness or feeling slowed down
- Dry mouth, constipation, or blurry vision
- Changes in hormones, like irregular periods or sexual side effects
Your treatment team can help in many ways:
- Adjusting the dose of the medication
- Switching to a different medication
- Adding something to reduce side effects (like for sleep or digestion)
- Connecting you with nutrition, activity, or wellness supports
- Giving you time to see how side effects settle as your body adjusts
For some people, certain side effects may not go away entirely—but that doesn’t mean recovery isn’t possible. Many people find ways to adapt and cope over time, whether it’s building routines that support nutrition [nutrition article link], energy and sleep, finding movement they enjoy, or working with peers or therapists who understand. Everyone’s experience is different, and your care team is available to ensure you feel seen, supported, and in control of your choices.
> What if I forget to take my medication?
Missing a dose once in a while may be okay, but regularly skipping doses can make the medication less effective, and could increase the chance of symptoms coming back or becoming harder to manage.
If you forget a dose:
- Try to take it as soon as you remember (unless it’s almost time for the next one—ask your care team what to do in those situations)
- Keep track of how often it happens and share that with your prescriber—they can help adjust the plan
Here are some strategies that can help you stay on track:
- Set a phone or calendar reminder or alarm
- Pair your meds with a daily habit, like brushing your teeth or eating breakfast
- Use a pill organizer or blister pack from the pharmacy
- Ask about long-acting injectables if remembering daily meds is difficult or stressful
- Use a phone app to help you stay organized and on schedule, especially if you’re taking more than one medication (there are plenty of free apps too)
Your care team is available to work with you to find a routine that works for you.
> Can the dose of my medication change over time?
Yes. Finding the right dose is a process. It often starts low and is gradually increased to a level that reduces symptoms while minimizing side effects. The goal is to maintain the lowest dose possible that effectively addresses symptoms while keeping side effects as minimal and manageable as possible.
As your needs change, your dose might go up or down. For example, if you’re feeling stable for a while, you might talk with your prescriber about lowering the dose. Or if symptoms return, increasing the dose temporarily could help.
You can always ask questions about dose changes. You’re encouraged to ask questions and be part of every decision. Some participants like to bring an advocate such as our Peer Support Specialist along with them to medication check-in appointments to ask questions and/or express concerns.
> What if I don’t feel better right away?
Some people notice improvements within days, while for others it can take a few weeks. It’s normal to feel unsure at first. If you don’t feel better—or if you feel worse—talk to your care team. Adjustments are often part of the process.
> How will I know if the medication is working?
You might notice fewer symptoms, more energy, better sleep, or that daily life feels a bit easier. Your care team can help you track progress over time and reflect on how things are going.
> Can I drink alcohol or use substances while on medication?
It’s important to talk with your prescriber. Drinking alcohol and using substances such as cannabis (especially heavy or frequent use) can interfere with how medication works and may increase the risk of side effects or relapse. Your team can help you make informed decisions that align with your goals and lifestyle.
> Can I take antipsychotic medication while pregnant or breastfeeding?
This is a common concern. If you’re thinking about pregnancy now or in the future, talk to your doctor. Some medications are considered safer than others, and your team can help you weigh the risks and benefits.
> Do I need to stay on the same medication forever?
Not at all. It’s common to try more than one medication before finding the right fit. Even after you find something that works, your needs may change over time, and your treatment can adjust with you.
> What questions should I ask my care team when considering medication?
It’s always okay and encouraged to ask questions. Some helpful ones might include:
- What are the benefits of starting medication now?
- What are the potential side effects of the medication you’re recommending and how common are they?
- Are there different options available (pills vs. injectables, different types)?
- How will we know if it’s working?
- What happens if I decide to stop later?
- How can I be involved in choosing what feels right for me?
- How might it interact with a current medication or recreational drug?
Your questions, concerns, and preferences matter.