Which of the following is an adverse effect of second generation antipsychotics (SGAs)?

The choice of cardiovascular disease as an adverse effect of second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) is substantiated by research indicating that these medications can lead to metabolic side effects, including weight gain, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. These metabolic changes can significantly increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease over time.

Second-generation antipsychotics are associated with a lower incidence of extrapyramidal symptoms compared to first-generation antipsychotics, but they can lead to other health concerns. The weight gain associated with certain SGAs such as clozapine or olanzapine can contribute to obesity, hypertension, and alterations in lipid profiles, all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, it is critical for psychiatric professionals to monitor patients on these medications for metabolic changes and implement lifestyle interventions to reduce these risks.

The other options presented focus on side effects that are atypical for second-generation antipsychotics. Galactorrhea and gynecomastia are more commonly linked with first-generation antipsychotics due to their stronger dopaminergic blockade, which affects prolactin levels. Meanwhile, akathisia, while it can occur with SGAs, is not as prominently associated as a main feature compared to metabolic