What are the metabolic effects commonly associated with antipsychotic medications?

Antipsychotic medications are often associated with various metabolic effects, one of the most prominent being major weight gain. This weight gain is particularly observed with atypical antipsychotics, such as clozapine and olanzapine. These medications can lead to changes in metabolism and body composition, including increased appetite and alterations in how the body processes glucose and fats.

The metabolic side effects can lead to obesity, which in turn raises the risk for other health issues such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Understanding this side effect is crucial for clinicians when prescribing antipsychotic medications, as they must balance the therapeutic benefits with the potential for significant weight gain and its implications for long-term health.

The other options do not accurately characterize the common metabolic effects associated with antipsychotic medications. Weight loss, decreased appetite, and increased anxiety are not typically seen as direct effects of these medications; rather, they may result from other factors or conditions associated with the patient's mental health status.