Which typical antipsychotic is known for its association with retinal deposits and torsades de pointe?

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Prepare for the Pennsylvania Psychiatry Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations. Master the material and boost your confidence!

Thorazine, also known as chlorpromazine, is recognized for its association with retinal deposits and the risk of torsades de pointe, which is a specific type of ventricular tachycardia characterized by a prolonged QT interval. The retinal deposits observed with chlorpromazine use can manifest as deposits in the cornea and lens, leading to potential visual disturbances in long-term users.

Torsades de pointe can occur due to the QT prolongation caused by many antipsychotics, but thorazine is particularly noted for this adverse effect. The drug's mechanism of action as a dopamine antagonist can lead to alterations in cardiac electrical activity, contributing to prolongation of the QT interval. This makes monitoring for cardiac effects crucial in patients on this medication, especially those at higher risk for cardiac arrhythmias.

Other typical antipsychotics may have different side effect profiles and risks, which do not specifically highlight the combination of retinal deposits and torsades de pointe in the same manner as thorazine does.

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