Psychopharmacology
What is Psychopharmacology?
Psychopharmacology is the scientific study of the effects that drugs have on mood, sensation, thinking, and behavior. It is distinguished from neuro-psychopharmacology, which emphasizes the correlation between drug-induced changes in the functioning of cells in the nervous system and changes in consciousness and behavior for the treatment of mental disorders and to promote overall patient health and well-being.
The required expertise for clinical psychopharmacology includes the main principles of pharmacology: pharmacokinetics (what the body does to the medication) and pharmacodynamics (what the medication does to the body). The purpose of these medications is to treat mental disorders and requires an understanding of neuroscience, pharmacology, psychopharmacology, clinical science, pathophysiology, biochemistry, and differential diagnosis of mental disorders.
Ajit Kalayil is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health conditions at his clinic in Chicago. Mental health disorders typically respond to either talk therapy or a psychopharmacological approach, and in many cases, a combination of the two is the most effective treatment. Kalayil has the knowledge and experience to perform psychopharmacological evaluations to determine if the use of psychotropic medication is indicated as part of the treatment of mental disorders, in addition to the full range of psychotherapeutic treatments. He is focused on the best outcome for the well-being of his patients.
If at any time during your treatment you have any concerns about the medications Ajit Kalayil prescribes for you, he’s happy to discuss your treatment with you and the reasons he believes it’s the best approach. It’s important for you to have an understanding of and be in agreement with your treatment. We want you to be empowered to express any concerns that you may have.
For more information or to book an appointment, call Kalayil Psychiatry today or schedule an appointment online.