A client has been receiving haloperidol (Haldol),a dopamine antagonist.When the psychiatrist changes the order to aripiprazole (Abilify),a partial dopamine antagonist,the nurse anticipates the client will experience which effect?

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The client is likely to experience fewer side effects with aripiprazole because it is a partial dopamine antagonist, meaning it allows some dopamine activity in the brain. Haloperidol, on the other hand, completely blocks dopamine activity, which can lead to adverse effects such as movement disorders. Aripiprazole is also associated with greater adherence in taking the drug compared to haloperidol. It is not necessarily true that the client will experience a greater reduction in symptoms or greater efficacy from the new drug, as this can vary depending on individual factors.

A Client Has Been Receiving Haloperidol (Haldol),a Dopamine Antagonist