Mechanism of action

Postulated that they cause their effects by blocking dopamine receptors in CNS. Depending on to the drug used other pharmacological actions seen in varying degrees include cholinergic, adrenergic, histaminergic and serotonergic blocking activity. The exact mechanism of their action is unknown. When administered to normal person these drugs cause emotional quietening, indifference to surroundings and sedation. When given in psychotics they decrease agitation, aggressiveness and tend to bring behaviour towards normality. Their administration may cause movement disorders.