Which statement is true about first-generation antipsychotics and seizures?

Which statement is true about first-generation antipsychotics and seizures?

• A. All FGAs lower the seizure threshold
• B. All FGAs raise the seizure threshold
• C. FGAs have no effect on seizure threshold
• D. Only high-dose FGAs affect seizure threshold

Answer: (A)

First-generation antipsychotics can lower the seizure threshold, meaning they can increase the brain’s tendency to have seizures. This happens because blocking dopamine D2 receptors in various CNS circuits can disrupt the balance of excitation and inhibition, sometimes reducing GABAergic restraint and making neurons more excitable. The risk is often higher with high-potency FGAs like haloperidol and at higher doses, but seizures have been reported with FGAs even at standard doses in people with predisposing factors. So, the general pattern is that FGAs can reduce seizure threshold, not that they have no effect or that they only matter at high doses.

First-generation antipsychotics can lower the seizure threshold, meaning they can increase the brain’s tendency to have seizures. This happens because blocking dopamine D2 receptors in various CNS circuits can disrupt the balance of excitation and inhibition, sometimes reducing GABAergic restraint and making neurons more excitable. The risk is often higher with high-potency FGAs like haloperidol and at higher doses, but seizures have been reported with FGAs even at standard doses in people with predisposing factors. So, the general pattern is that FGAs can reduce seizure threshold, not that they have no effect or that they only matter at high doses.