Second-generation antipsychotics are described as blocking both negative and positive symptoms.

Second-generation antipsychotics are described as blocking both negative and positive symptoms.

• A. They block both negative and positive symptoms
• B. They block only positive symptoms
• C. They worsen negative symptoms
• D. They do not affect symptoms

Answer: (A)

Second-generation antipsychotics treat both positive and negative symptoms because of their dual receptor actions. Blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the mesolimbic pathway reduces positive symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. At the same time, antagonizing serotonin 5-HT2A receptors increases dopamine release in the prefrontal (mesocortical) pathway, which can help alleviate negative symptoms such as flat affect, social withdrawal, and alogia, and may support cognitive function. This combination gives SGAs their broader symptom coverage compared with earlier agents, along with a lower risk of movement-related side effects. While individual responses vary, the pharmacology supports improvement in both symptom domains rather than affecting only one.

Second-generation antipsychotics treat both positive and negative symptoms because of their dual receptor actions. Blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the mesolimbic pathway reduces positive symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. At the same time, antagonizing serotonin 5-HT2A receptors increases dopamine release in the prefrontal (mesocortical) pathway, which can help alleviate negative symptoms such as flat affect, social withdrawal, and alogia, and may support cognitive function. This combination gives SGAs their broader symptom coverage compared with earlier agents, along with a lower risk of movement-related side effects. While individual responses vary, the pharmacology supports improvement in both symptom domains rather than affecting only one.