What is a potential side effect of antipsychotic medications?

Drowsiness and fatigue are recognized side effects of many antipsychotic medications. This occurs because these medications often have sedative properties that can affect the central nervous system, leading to a feeling of lethargy or a decrease in energy levels. This side effect can severely impact daily functioning and can contribute to challenges in adherence to medication regimens, as individuals may feel too fatigued to engage in daily activities or responsibilities effectively.

In contrast, options such as increased appetite leading to weight loss, heightened mental clarity, and improved social interactions do not accurately represent common side effects associated with antipsychotic use. Typically, these medications can lead to weight gain due to increased appetite rather than weight loss, and they are not associated with enhanced mental clarity or improved social interactions, which are objectives of treatment but may not reflect the immediate physiological effects of these drugs.