A client is prescribed an atypical antipsychotic medication. What should the nurse monitor for in this client?

Weight loss is not a common adverse effect of antipsychotic medications.In fact, most antipsychotics are associated with weight gain and metabolic syndrome, which can increase the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.Some antipsychotics, such as clozapine (Clozaril®) and olanzapine (Zyprexa®), are more likely to cause weight gain than others.

The other choices are common adverse effects of antipsychotic medications.Sedation, dry mouth, and blurred vision are examples of anticholinergic effects, which are more prominent with first-generation antipsychotics and clozapine.These effects can be managed by reducing the dose, switching to a different antipsychotic, or using adjunctive medications.

Sedation and weight gain are common side effects of atypical antipsychotic medications.These medications act on both dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain and may also have some antidepressant effects.

Choice A is wrong because weight loss and hypotension are not typical side effects of atypical antipsychotics.In fact, weight gain is more likely to occur.

Choice B is wrong because hyperactivity and insomnia are not typical side effects of atypical antipsychotics.These medications may cause difficulty sleeping and extreme tiredness.

Choice C is wrong because blurred vision and urinary retention are not typical side effects of atypical antipsychotics.These medications may cause dry mouth and constipation.

Other possible side effects of atypical antipsychotics include dizziness, seizures, allergic reactions, heart problems, and high prolactin levels.Some atypical antipsychotics may also cause extrapyramidal symptoms, such as muscle spasms, restlessness, tremors, or abnormal movements.

These are more common with typical antipsychotics.

Atypical antipsychotics are used to treat various mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, OCD, and treatment-resistant mania.They may also be prescribed off-label for other conditions, such as Tourette’s syndrome.