Which second-generation antipsychotic requires administration with a meal containing adequate fat because food increases its bioavailability several-fold, and carries the greatest concern for QT prolongation among commonly used agents?
- A Olanzapine
- B Ziprasidone ✓
- C Quetiapine
- D Risperidone
Correct answer: B. Ziprasidone
Explanation
Ziprasidone absorption roughly doubles when taken with food, and prescribing information mandates intake with a meal. It blocks hERG potassium channels and can prolong the QT interval, so it is avoided in patients with hypokalaemia, bradycardia, or congenital long QT. Olanzapine has minimal QT effect but the highest weight-gain liability, which makes it the strongest distractor because students often confuse metabolic and cardiac risk profiles.
Reference: Katzung Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.