What neurotransmitter system is primarily targeted by typical antipsychotics?

Typical antipsychotics primarily target the dopamine system. These medications are designed to alleviate symptoms of psychosis, including hallucinations and delusions, which are often associated with an overactivity of dopamine in certain areas of the brain. By blocking dopamine D2 receptors, typical antipsychotics reduce dopaminergic transmission, leading to a decrease in these psychotic symptoms.

Dopamine plays a critical role in many brain functions, including mood regulation, reward, and the coordination of movement. The pharmacological action of typical antipsychotics results in a significant impact on the dopamine pathways, particularly the mesolimbic pathway, which is closely tied to the manifestation of psychotic symptoms. This mechanism makes the dopamine system the main target for typical antipsychotics, setting them apart from other classes of psychiatric medications that might influence different neurotransmitter systems such as serotonin, norepinephrine, or GABA.