AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Because of their ability to block dopamine receptors without causing the opening of ion channels and setting off an action potential, neuroleptics can be administered to schizophrenic patients to help reduce excess levels of dopamine, and to thus help alleviate the positive symptoms of the disorder.

Detailed explanation-2: -So far, all antipsychotics block the dopamine-2 (D2) receptor in the brain, including recently available antipsychotics such as lurasidone, cariprazine and brexpiprazole. However large differences exist in binding strength to the D2 receptor that influence dosage ranges.

Detailed explanation-3: -First-generation or conventional antipsychotics are D2 antagonists, they lower dopaminergic neurotransmission in the four dopamine pathways. In addition, they can also block other receptors such as histamine-1, muscarinic-1 and alpha-1.

Detailed explanation-4: -Haloperidol, fluphenazine, and chlorpromazine are known as conventional, or typical, antipsychotics and have been used to treat schizophrenia for years.

Detailed explanation-5: -What are the currently available dopamine receptor agonists in the United States? Four dopamine agonists are now Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approved and available for use in the United States to treat PD: Mirapex® (pramipexole), Requip® (ropinirole), Neupro® (rotigotine) and Apokyn® (apomorphine).