Treatment varies depending on the cause of the psychosis. Psychotherapy, medication, and hospitalization are all helpful in treating psychosis.
During sudden flare-ups, the psychotic symptoms may be severe enough that the person needs to be protected. If suicide or homicide is part of the person's delusions, the person may need to be hospitalized. Antipsychotic medication such as haloperidol, thiothixene, trifluoperazine, and chlorpromazine may be helpful.
Potential side effects from antipsychotic medication can include:
These medication side effects are generally uncommon. They will go away once the person stops taking the medication.
Psychosis can be controlled with treatment in some cases. The success of the treatment varies depending on the cause.
Careful monitoring of the person is necessary. Medications need to be monitored to make sure that the correct dose is given. A healthcare provider should be consulted if the person loses contact with reality, or has any new or worsening symptoms.