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Over the past 20
years, numerous brain scan studies (CT and MRI) have evaluated the anatomy of
patients following new exposures to antipsychotic drugs.
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Without exception,
study designs that have compared anatomical changes
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“before” and “after”
the use of these pharmaceuticals have revealed shrinkage of the brain under
the influence of conventional (old) and/or newer (so-called “atypical”)
drugs.
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In some studies,
patients have experienced a 4-9% reduction in brain volume in less than three
years.
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[That the drugs are
the cause of these changes, rather than an underlying disease process, is
strongly implied by the research involving animals. Recall the University of Pittsburgh
investigation, where monkeys exposed to Haldol or Zyprexa for 1 ½ to 2 years
experienced a 10% reduction in brain volume and brain weight.]
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