Syllabus · Current · V5 (2025) · Nervous System including autonomic and pain
H6 · Neuropharmacology
H6.v · Antipsychotics
Understand the pharmacology of anti-psychotic drugs.
Written examination
SAQ history
Haloperidol vs Olanzapine vs Quetiapine
1 exam appearance
Compare and contrast the pharmacodynamics of haloperidol, olanzapine, and quetiapine, relevant to their use in intensive care, using the following headings:
a) primary mechanism of action (25% of marks).
b) extrapyramidal side effects (15% of marks).
c) other receptor mediated effects (30% of marks).
d) cardiac toxicity (15% of marks).
e) idiosyncratic adverse effects (15% of marks).
21.7%
Neuropharmacology — Haloperidol
1 exam appearance
Classify the anti-psychotic drugs (25% marks). Outline the pharmacology of haloperidol (75% marks).
28%
Neuropharmacology — Haloperidol vs Diazepam
1 exam appearance
Oral examination
VIVA history
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2012B · VIVA 8
This Viva will examine knowledge of the pharmacology of commonly used sedatives and their effects on Respiratory and CNS physiology. List the properties of an ideal sedative drug in Intensive Care? Subsequent discussion involved pharmacology of midazolam, how it compares to haloperidol, an understanding of the term “neuroleptic”, respiratory physiological response to sedation and the principles of the EEG.
Sources: objective text from the relevant CICM syllabus; historical SAQ and VIVA wording from CICM examiner reports.