Which antipsychotic is commonly mentioned alongside increased tardive dyskinesia risk?

Fluphenazine is a first-generation antipsychotic (also known as a typical antipsychotic) that is well-known for its association with a higher risk of extrapyramidal side effects, including tardive dyskinesia. Tardive dyskinesia is a serious and often irreversible movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle movements, particularly in the face and limbs. This risk is significantly higher in first-generation antipsychotics due to their mechanism of action, which primarily involves strong dopamine D2 receptor antagonism.

In contrast, second-generation antipsychotics, such as olanzapine, clozapine, and quetiapine, generally have a lower risk of tardive dyskinesia. They also affect serotonin receptors alongside dopamine receptors, which may contribute to a more favorable side effect profile regarding movement disorders. As a result, while all antipsychotics carry some risk of side effects, fluphenazine is particularly notable for its association with increased tardive dyskinesia risk compared to the other options. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting appropriate antipsychotic medications in clinical practice and managing patient care effectively.