Final answer:
Antipsychotic medications primarily act as dopamine antagonists in the CNS to manage psychosis and reduce overactive dopamine neurotransmission. They can diminish psychotic symptoms without significantly impairing intellectual functions, but may cause side effects similar to extrapyramidal system movement disorders and may lead to Parkinson's disease-like symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Most antipsychotic medications exert effects on the central nervous system by acting as dopamine antagonists, which block dopamine receptors and thereby reduce overactive dopamine neurotransmission. These effects can lead to a reduction in psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. Additionally, these medications often result in side effects similar to those observed in movement disorders of the extrapyramidal system, given that they influence dopamine activity which is significant in the basal nuclei.
Neuroleptic drugs, a class of antipsychotics, are noted to moderately sedate patients, reduce initiative, interest in the environment and displays of emotion, and diminish aggressive and impulsive behavior. Moreover, they do not cause a loss of consciousness but may induce drowsiness, slowness in response to stimuli, and a tendency to sleep. While they may reduce psychotic agitation and restlessness, they do not significantly impair intellectual functions or coordination at ordinary doses.
It is important to note that while these medications can be effective in managing symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, they are not a cure, and most patients may require lifelong medication. Additionally, the decrement in dopamine activity may also lead to Parkinson's disease-like symptoms in some patients.