Question

Antipsychotic medications provide d2 blockade in the nigrostriatal, which causes which of the following?

1. A) Tardive dyskinesia
2. B) Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
3. C) Parkinsonian symptoms
4. D) Akathisia

Answer 1

Antipsychotic medications that block D2 receptors in the nigrostriatal pathway can lead to Parkinsonian symptoms due to reduced dopamine signaling in the basal ganglia.

Step-by-step explanation:

Antipsychotic medications provide D2 blockade in the nigrostriatal pathway, which can cause Parkinsonian symptoms. This happens because antipsychotics reduce dopamine activity in the brain, particularly in the basal ganglia where dopamine plays a critical role in controlling movement. With the reduction of dopamine signaling due to the D2 blockade, patients can experience side effects similar to those observed in Parkinson's disease, which can include tremors, bradykinesia, muscle rigidity, and postural instability. It is important to monitor patients on antipsychotic medications for these types of extrapyramidal symptoms and manage them appropriately.