Final answer:
Antipsychotic drugs carry risks such as weight gain, metabolic changes, increased risk of stroke, and extrapyramidal symptoms. These side effects need to be carefully considered when prescribing these medications for conditions like schizophrenia.
Step-by-step explanation:
A major risk associated with the use of antipsychotics, which include typical and atypical neuroleptics, is all of the above: weight gain and metabolic changes, increased risk of stroke, and extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). Antipsychotics are primarily used in the management of psychosis, such as that experienced by individuals with schizophrenia. These drugs block dopamine receptors, which can lead to a variety of side effects. Weight gain and metabolic changes are common and can increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Extrapyramidal symptoms, which are drug-induced movement disorders, can include tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia, and tardive dyskinesia, resembling symptoms seen in Parkinson's disease. Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of stroke. It's crucial to weigh these risks against the benefits when considering antipsychotic medication as part of a treatment plan.