Which statement best describes the metabolic risks of atypical antipsychotics?

Which statement best describes the metabolic risks of atypical antipsychotics?

• A. Weight gain, diabetes, and dyslipidemia
• B. Agranulocytosis
• C. Seizures
• D. Sedation

Answer: (C)

Atypical antipsychotics are known for metabolic side effects that increase cardiovascular risk: weight gain, insulin resistance leading to diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Weight gain can pushes people toward insulin resistance, which can raise blood glucose and contribute to type 2 diabetes. The combination of higher glucose and abnormal lipid levels together constitutes metabolic syndrome, a key concern with these medications. While other risks exist with antipsychotics—such as agranulocytosis (a severe drop in white blood cells, mainly linked to clozapine), seizures at higher doses, or sedation—the metabolic changes described here are the best fit for describing their metabolic risk profile.

Atypical antipsychotics are known for metabolic side effects that increase cardiovascular risk: weight gain, insulin resistance leading to diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Weight gain can pushes people toward insulin resistance, which can raise blood glucose and contribute to type 2 diabetes. The combination of higher glucose and abnormal lipid levels together constitutes metabolic syndrome, a key concern with these medications. While other risks exist with antipsychotics—such as agranulocytosis (a severe drop in white blood cells, mainly linked to clozapine), seizures at higher doses, or sedation—the metabolic changes described here are the best fit for describing their metabolic risk profile.