Dopamine receptor blockade refers to the inhibition of dopamine receptors, primarily D2 receptors, which is a mechanism of action for many antipsychotic medications used to treat disorders like schizophrenia. This blockade can lead to therapeutic effects by reducing dopaminergic activity in certain brain pathways, but it may also cause side effects such as extrapyramidal symptoms and hyperprolactinemia due to dopamine's role in motor control and prolactin regulation.