Question:medium

Which of the following antipsychotics is most associated with increased prolactin secretion?

Show Hint

The most potent D2 blocker among the atypicals raises prolactin the most.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Olanzapine
  • Ziprasidone
  • Clozapine
  • Risperidone
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Hyperprolactinemia from antipsychotics tracks with how strongly the drug blocks $D_2$ receptors in the tuberoinfundibular tract.

Step 2: Rank the agents by $D_2$ affinity. Clozapine, olanzapine, and ziprasidone are loose or transient $D_2$ binders and tend to leave prolactin near normal.

Step 3: Risperidone binds $D_2$ tightly and persistently, and it does not readily cross into the brain to spare the pituitary, so circulating prolactin climbs significantly during therapy.

Step 4: Therefore the agent that stands out for raising prolactin is risperidone.

\[\boxed{\text{Risperidone}}\]
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