What are common side effects of antipsychotic medications?

Antipsychotic medications, particularly the atypical ones, are often associated with weight gain and sedation as common side effects. Weight gain can occur due to changes in metabolism, increase in appetite, and alterations in how the body stores fat. This effect is particularly prevalent with medications like clozapine and olanzapine. Sedation, or drowsiness, can also be a significant side effect of many antipsychotics, as they tend to affect neurotransmitters in the brain, including those involved in sleep regulation.

While hypertension and tachycardia can occur with some antipsychotics, they are not the primary side effects associated with this class of medications. Similarly, insomnia and anxiety may arise in certain situations but are not typical side effects. Skin rash and itching are not commonly linked to antipsychotic treatment, making weight gain and sedation the most recognized and significant side effects in clinical practice.