Which statement about second-generation antipsychotics is true?

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Multiple Choice

Which statement about second-generation antipsychotics is true?

Explanation:
Second-generation antipsychotics rely on dual receptor blockade: dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. Blocking D2 reduces psychotic positive symptoms, while antagonism of 5-HT2A receptors helps balance dopamine across pathways, which lowers motor side effects (extrapyramidal symptoms) and can improve negative symptoms and prolactin effects. This combination is the hallmark that sets them apart from drugs that act mainly on norepinephrine, NMDA receptors, or by boosting GABA signaling, making blocking both D2 and 5-HT2A the best description of their action.

Second-generation antipsychotics rely on dual receptor blockade: dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. Blocking D2 reduces psychotic positive symptoms, while antagonism of 5-HT2A receptors helps balance dopamine across pathways, which lowers motor side effects (extrapyramidal symptoms) and can improve negative symptoms and prolactin effects. This combination is the hallmark that sets them apart from drugs that act mainly on norepinephrine, NMDA receptors, or by boosting GABA signaling, making blocking both D2 and 5-HT2A the best description of their action.

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