Jennie's husband was hospitalized and treated with antipsychotic medications for his symptoms of schizophrenia. Because she was worried about his symptoms, Jennie confronted the psychiatrist who was treating her husband. "This is completely unacceptable," she said. "My husband shuffles around this ward like he is a zombie. He jerks and twitches for no apparent reason, the expression on his face hardly ever changes, and he's becoming more withdrawn and apathetic." Which of the following medications was most likely being used to treat Jennie's husband?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Jennie's description of her husband's symptoms, including shuffling, jerking, limited facial expression, and apathy, are common side effects of antipsychotic medications, specifically those of the first generation or "typical" antipsychotics like chlorpromazine. These side effects are known as extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) and can include dystonia, akathisia, parkinsonism, and tardive dyskinesia. While second generation or "atypical" antipsychotics like clozapine and risperidone can also cause EPS, they are less likely to do so than typical antipsychotics. Buspirone, on the other hand, is not an antipsychotic medication and would not typically be used to treat schizophrenia.

Jennie's Husband Was Hospitalized and Treated with Antipsychotic Medications for His