Which of these medications is an atypical antipsychotic?

Which of these medications is an atypical antipsychotic?

• A. Risperidone
• B. Clomipramine
• C. Imipramine
• D. Phenelzine

Answer: (A)

Risperidone is classified as an atypical antipsychotic because it primarily targets both dopamine and serotonin receptors, which is a hallmark of atypical antipsychotics. These medications are known for their efficacy in treating symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders while typically having a lower risk of extrapyramidal side effects compared to typical antipsychotics. Atypical antipsychotics often provide a broader range of treatment for both positive and negative symptoms of psychotic disorders. Risperidone, specifically, is noted for its versatility in treating various psychiatric conditions, including bipolar disorder and irritability associated with autism, which further supports its classification. The other medications mentioned have different classifications and uses. Clomipramine and imipramine are tricyclic antidepressants, primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, while phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), also used for depression. Each of these alternatives operates through different mechanisms and is prescribed for different psychiatric conditions.

Risperidone is classified as an atypical antipsychotic because it primarily targets both dopamine and serotonin receptors, which is a hallmark of atypical antipsychotics. These medications are known for their efficacy in treating symptoms of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders while typically having a lower risk of extrapyramidal side effects compared to typical antipsychotics.

Atypical antipsychotics often provide a broader range of treatment for both positive and negative symptoms of psychotic disorders. Risperidone, specifically, is noted for its versatility in treating various psychiatric conditions, including bipolar disorder and irritability associated with autism, which further supports its classification.

The other medications mentioned have different classifications and uses. Clomipramine and imipramine are tricyclic antidepressants, primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, while phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), also used for depression. Each of these alternatives operates through different mechanisms and is prescribed for different psychiatric conditions.