Clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic used in treating schizophrenia, is a receptor antagonist of which type?

Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic that primarily functions as a receptor antagonist for the D2 dopamine receptor. Its ability to block D2 receptors in the brain contributes to its effectiveness in managing symptoms of schizophrenia, such as delusions and hallucinations.

However, it is also worth noting that clozapine has a broader pharmacological profile compared to other antipsychotics; it interacts with multiple neurotransmitter receptors, including serotonin receptors. This multi-faceted action helps to reduce side effects typically associated with other antipsychotics, particularly extrapyramidal symptoms.

Additionally, while clozapine does have interactions with D3, D4, and D5 receptors, the dominant action that relates to its effectiveness in treating schizophrenia is through D2 receptor antagonism. Thus, understanding its primary mechanism as a D2 antagonist is crucial for clinical application and enhancing the therapeutic benefits for patients.