Tag: Brain changes

In 2019, an estimated 16 million U.S. adults used prescription stimulants [1.4.2]. The question many ask is: **Do stimulants rewire your brain?** The answer depends heavily on dose, frequency, and whether the use is therapeutic or non-medical [1.6.3].

Long-term antipsychotic treatment has been associated with progressive changes in the brain, including potential alterations in brain volume and neurochemical pathways. The question of what do antipsychotics do to the brain long term involves a complex interplay between therapeutic benefits, side effects, and the impact of the underlying illness itself.

In the United States, approximately 1.6% of adults use antipsychotic medications, which are essential for treating conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder [1.8.1, 1.8.2]. Understanding **how do antipsychotics change the brain** is crucial for weighing their therapeutic benefits against potential long-term effects on neural structure and function.

Over 13% of American adults use antidepressants, with Lexapro being a common choice [1.8.3]. So, what does Lexapro do to your brain long-term? This medication induces significant changes, from altering serotonin pathways to promoting neuroplasticity [1.3.1, 1.5.1].