Drug of choice for the treatment of negative symptoms of schizophrenia is:
**Core Concept**
Negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as apathy, alogia, and avolition, are a hallmark of the disorder. These symptoms are thought to result from the decreased activity of dopamine in the prefrontal cortex.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The drug of choice for treating negative symptoms of schizophrenia is an antipsychotic with a high affinity for the D2 receptor in the prefrontal cortex. Clozapine has been shown to be effective in reducing negative symptoms, likely due to its ability to increase dopamine release in the prefrontal cortex. This is achieved through its interaction with the D1 receptor, which is involved in the regulation of dopamine release.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Olanzapone is not the correct answer as it is more effective in treating positive symptoms of schizophrenia. While it may have some effect on negative symptoms, it is not the first-line treatment.
**Option B:** Risperidone is not the correct answer as it is more effective in treating positive symptoms of schizophrenia and may even exacerbate negative symptoms in some cases.
**Option C:** Haloperidol is not the correct answer as it is a typical antipsychotic that can worsen negative symptoms due to its high affinity for the D2 receptor in the mesolimbic pathway.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The treatment of negative symptoms of schizophrenia often requires a combination of medications, including antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, as well as behavioral therapies.
**Correct Answer: C. Haloperidol**