Typical Antipsychotics
Start with the big picture
Typical antipsychotics include high-potency agents such as haloperidol and low-potency agents such as chlorpromazine. Higher potency is associated with more extrapyramidal symptoms, while lower potency is associated with more sedation, anticholinergic effects, and α₁ blockade. D₂ blockade in other pathways can contribute to movement disorders and elevated prolactin. Important safety topics include neuroleptic malignant syndrome, QT prolongation, orthostatic hypotension, and cautions for people with Parkinson disease or prolonged QT. EPS can emerge on different timelines: dystonia may occur within hours, akathisia within days, parkinsonism within weeks, and tardive dyskinesia after months to years. The deeper lesson organizes these mechanisms, effects, indications, and practical considerations into a structured review.
What you'll learn
- Explain how mesolimbic D₂ antagonism reduces positive psychotic symptoms.
- Distinguish high- and low-potency typical antipsychotics and their associated adverse effects.
- Identify the characteristic timelines of major extrapyramidal symptoms.
- Recognize major safety concerns, including NMS, hyperprolactinemia, and QT prolongation.
- Describe common indications and administration considerations for typical antipsychotics.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
