What is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications?

Antipsychotic medications, commonly prescribed for conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, often have a range of side effects due to their action on neurotransmitter systems in the brain. One notable side effect is excessive sleepiness or sedation. This occurs because many antipsychotics have antihistaminic properties, which can lead to drowsiness and decreased alertness in patients.

Patients taking antipsychotic medications frequently report feeling more lethargic or sleepy, particularly when starting treatment or increasing dosage. This side effect can impact their daily functioning and quality of life, necessitating careful monitoring by healthcare providers.

Excessive sleepiness is significant in clinical practice because it can influence a patient's adherence to medication and their ability to participate in therapy or other daily activities. Identifying this side effect early allows healthcare professionals to adjust treatment plans, potentially switching to medications with a lower sedative profile or implementing strategies to manage this side effect effectively.