Abnormal involuntary movements: side-effect of neuroleptic drugs

Neuroleptics are antipsychotic drugs. In addition to their antipsychotic properties, many physicians use them as anti-anxiety or antiemetics. Indeed, most patients referred to psychiatrists would have been given one, or a combination, of these drugs. Physicians should therefore be aware of their sid...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Canadian family physician 1982-01, Vol.28, p.105-109
Main Author: Oyewumi, L K
Format: Article
Language:English
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary:Neuroleptics are antipsychotic drugs. In addition to their antipsychotic properties, many physicians use them as anti-anxiety or antiemetics. Indeed, most patients referred to psychiatrists would have been given one, or a combination, of these drugs. Physicians should therefore be aware of their side-effects. Abnormal involuntary movements, now recognized as side-effects of neuroleptics, are broadly classified as acute early occurring movement disorders and late appearing movement disorders. The clinical description, early recognition, pathophysiology, prevention and treatment of these side-effects are reviewed and judicious use of these drugs advocated.
ISSN:0008-350X
1715-5258