Which of the following is NOT a side effect associated with antipsychotic drugs?

Prepare for the Central Nervous System Pharmacology Test with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Sharpen your skills for exam success!

Antipsychotic drugs, used primarily to treat conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, are known for a range of side effects due to their impact on neurotransmitter systems, particularly dopamine. Extrapyramidal symptoms, weight gain, and tardive dyskinesia are well-documented side effects associated with these medications.

Extrapyramidal symptoms, which include tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, arise from the blockade of dopamine receptors in the nigrostriatal pathway, a crucial area for motor control. Weight gain is another commonly reported side effect, particularly with atypical antipsychotics, due to increased appetite and alterations in metabolism related to serotonin and histamine receptor activity. Tardive dyskinesia, a potentially irreversible condition characterized by abnormal involuntary movements, is associated with long-term use of antipsychotic medications, particularly typical ones.

In contrast, dehydration is not typically linked to the pharmacological effects of antipsychotics. While some medications may cause dry mouth or other indirect factors leading to reduced fluid intake, dehydration itself is not a common or recognized side effect of antipsychotic medication usage. Thus, the correct answer indicates that dehydration does not fall within the standard adverse effects seen

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