Final answer:
The extrapyramidal effects of conventional antipsychotic drugs include movement disorders due to their influence on the basal nuclei and dopamine system, potentially causing muscle rigidity, tremors, and bradykinesia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Extrapyramidal Effects of Conventional Antipsychotic Drugs
The extrapyramidal effects that appear in some patients after they have taken conventional antipsychotic drugs for an extended time are movement disorders that can resemble symptoms of Parkinson's disease. These effects are due to the impact of these drugs on the extrapyramidal system, particularly the basal nuclei. Antipsychotics work by blocking dopamine receptors, decreasing dopamine activity which is vital in the regulation of movement. Over time, patients may experience muscle rigidity, tremors, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. These symptoms are related to the drug's influence on the basal nuclei in the brain, which play a pivotal role in motor control. Additionally, these drugs can cause tardive dyskinesia, characterized by repetitive, involuntary, and purposeless movements, as a late-onset side effect.
Neuroleptic drugs, such as haloperidol, are known to reduce psychotic symptoms but also impact motor functions. While they can decrease agitation, aggression, and psychotic delusions, their effect on the dopamine system can lead to reduced voluntary movement and the onset of extrapyramidal side effects. Motor control regions, including the basal nuclei, are affected, which contributes to the development of these adverse effects.