Sleepiness is the tendency to fall asleep, while fatigue is a sense of exhaustion or reduced energy that may occur without drowsiness. The experiences often overlap but suggest different assessment questions. A person can feel…Continue Reading
Some antipsychotics can increase hunger, food cravings or the difficulty of feeling satisfied after eating. A person may notice a clear change soon after treatment begins or exposure increases. These experiences can be biologically influenced…Continue Reading
Slowed movement, or bradykinesia, involves reduced speed or ease of initiating and carrying out actions. A person may take longer to dress, write or rise from a chair. Movements can become smaller, and facial expression…Continue Reading
Several receptor systems are implicated in antipsychotic-related appetite and metabolic effects. H1 histamine blockade and 5-HT2C effects are relevant to appetite regulation. Muscarinic M3-related mechanisms have been investigated in insulin secretion. Other neural and peripheral…Continue Reading
Rigidity is increased resistance when a joint is moved, reflecting altered muscle tone. A person may describe stiffness, discomfort or difficulty with ordinary movements. It can affect the limbs, trunk or facial movement and may…Continue Reading
Antipsychotics differ in their average effects on weight and metabolism. Olanzapine and clozapine are associated with substantial weight and metabolic burdens, while some other medicines have lower average effects. Lower risk does not mean no…Continue Reading
Tremor is a rhythmic shaking movement that can affect the hands or other body parts. It has several causes, including medicines and neurological conditions. A tremor associated with parkinsonism may occur at rest, but the…Continue Reading
Weight gain can contribute to insulin resistance, diabetes risk and cardiovascular burden, but it is not the only determinant of metabolic health. Some drug effects on glucose and lipids may occur without large visible weight…Continue Reading
Parkinsonism is a syndrome, while Parkinson’s disease is one particular neurological cause. Drug-induced parkinsonism can occur when medicines interfere with dopamine signalling. The symptoms can resemble Parkinson’s disease, and treatment exposure may sometimes reveal an…Continue Reading
Prevention begins with discussing likely effects, obtaining appropriate baseline measures and reviewing changes early. Practical support may include nutrition advice, manageable activity, sleep assessment and help overcoming financial or environmental barriers. Plans should be realistic…Continue Reading