Which antipsychotic is classified as a dopamine partial agonist at D2 receptors (dopamine system stabiliser) and also acts as a partial agonist at 5-HT1A receptors?

• A Olanzapine
• B Quetiapine
• C Amisulpride
• D Aripiprazole ✓

Explanation

Aripiprazole is a third-generation antipsychotic that acts as a partial agonist at D2 and D3 receptors (stabilising dopaminergic tone — reducing overactivity in mesolimbic pathways and restoring activity in mesocortical pathways) and as a partial agonist at 5-HT1A receptors. This unique mechanism produces antipsychotic efficacy with minimal metabolic side effects and low risk of hyperprolactinaemia. Olanzapine and quetiapine are D2 antagonists with significant metabolic effects; amisulpride is a selective D2/D3 antagonist.

Reference: KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.