Chlorpromazine is classified as what type of antipsychotic?

Chlorpromazine is classified as a first-generation antipsychotic, also known as a typical antipsychotic. This classification is based on its mechanism of action and the timeline in which it was introduced for the treatment of psychotic disorders, particularly schizophrenia. First-generation antipsychotics work primarily by blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the brain, which helps reduce psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions.

Chlorpromazine was one of the first antipsychotic medications developed and has been widely used in psychiatric practice since its introduction in the 1950s. It is characterized by its potential to cause extrapyramidal side effects due to its potent antagonism of dopamine receptors. The other classifications listed, such as second-generation antipsychotics, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants, represent different mechanisms of action and therapeutic uses not associated with chlorpromazine. Second-generation antipsychotics, for example, typically have a different receptor binding profile and a lower incidence of extrapyramidal side effects.