Third Generation Antipsychotic

Question 1

What is the mechanism of action of Aripiprazole?

Answer 1

Dopamine D2 Receptor Partial Agonist

Binds to the D2 receptor, then very quickly releases, then re-binds. This repetitive binding pattern does not allow for the normal dopamine molecules in the synapse to bind to the D2 receptor. Prevents excess DA from over-stimulating receptors, and deficient DA from under-stimulating receptors. ‘Stabilizes’, or ‘normalizes’, DA signal transduction.

Question 2

Which pathway does Aripiprazole affect to address negative symptoms and cognitive symptoms?

Answer 2

Mesocortical Pathway: VTA → Prefrontal Cortex

Negative Symptoms, Cognitive Symptoms

Question 3

What receptor does Aripiprazole bind to in a stabilizing manner similar to the D2 receptor?

Answer 3

5-HT 1A receptor

Bind to 5-HT 1A receptor in stabilizing manner, similar to D2-receptor agonism; does not allow excess or deficient 5-HT to over-stimulate or under-stimulate receptors.

Question 4

Which pathway does Aripiprazole affect to address positive symptoms and therapeutic effects?

Answer 4

Mesolimbic Pathway: VTA → Limbic system

Positive Symptoms, Therapeutic Effect

Question 5

What is the abbreviation for Serotonin in the context of this text?

Answer 5

5-HT - Serotonin