Which of the following is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications?

Emotional blunting is a recognized side effect of antipsychotic medications, particularly the atypical antipsychotics. This phenomenon refers to a reduction in emotional expressiveness and reactivity, which may manifest as a diminished ability to feel emotions deeply. Patients may report feeling less joy, sadness, or anger than they did before starting the medication. This side effect can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life and interpersonal relationships, as they may find it difficult to connect emotionally with others.

While some alternatives might seem relevant, they are not commonly associated with the use of antipsychotic medications. For instance, weight loss is typically not a side effect of these drugs; many patients experience weight gain instead. Increased energy is also not a common response to antipsychotics, as these medications can lead to sedation and decreased energy levels. Improved sleep might occur in some patients, particularly those with insomnia; however, it is not universally applicable to all individuals taking antipsychotics and should not be considered a primary side effect. Thus, emotional blunting stands out as a typical and significant side effect of antipsychotic treatment.