Clozapine is the only drug with convincing evidence of superior efficacy over other antipsychotics for treatmentresistant schizophrenia. Consider using it after two failed trials of other antipsychotics. Side effects can be a real challenge, including severe weight gain, constipation, drooling, sedation, and potential neutropenia. From Medication Fact Book for Psychiatric Practice, 7th Edition (2023).

St. John’s wort can be considered an option along with conventional antidepressants for short-term treatment of mild depression; however, be wary of its many drug interactions. From Medication Fact Book for Psychiatric Practice, 7th Edition (2023).

The efficacy of VNS remains too controversial to recommend its use in all but the most desperate clinical situations. Noninvasive VNS devices may become available for depression treatment in the future. From Medication Fact Book for Psychiatric Practice, 7th Edition (2023).

What Does It Treat? Lurasidone is primarily used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar depression. It helps to improve symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, depressed mood, and disrupted sleep patterns.

What Does It Treat? Lithium is used to treat bipolar disorder (manic depressive disorder). It stabilizes mood and reduces extreme mood fluctuations by restoring the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

What Does It Treat? Moderate to severe alcohol use disorder.

What Does It Treat? Escitalopram is used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.

What Does It Treat? Lorazepam is used to treat anxiety disorders. It can also be used to treat insomnia and seizures, and to provide sedation before medical procedures.

What Does It Treat? Mirtazapine is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder. It may also be prescribed off-label to help with sleep problems or anxiety disorders.

What Does It Treat? Olanzapine is used to treat certain mental/mood conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression in combination with other medications