What common side effect might a patient experience when taking non-phenothiazines?

Non-phenothiazines, which include a range of medications such as butyrophenones and certain atypical antipsychotics, can lead to drowsiness as a common side effect. This occurs because these medications often act by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, particularly the D2 receptors, which can exert a sedative effect. This sedative property is one of the reasons they may be prescribed in certain contexts, such as for acute agitation or acute psychosis, where calming the patient is a priority.

Drowsiness is a critical aspect to monitor because it can impact a patient's daily functioning and safety, particularly when driving or operating machinery. Other side effects may occur with non-phenothiazines, but drowsiness is notably prevalent due to the central nervous system depressant effects these drugs can have.

In contrast, insomnia, increased appetite, and hypertension are less commonly associated with non-phenothiazine medications. While some patients might experience variations in sleep patterns, the sedative effects tend to outweigh insomnia. Increased appetite and hypertension are not typical outcomes of non-phenothiazines and may instead be more closely related to other classes of medications or specific patient factors.