Search

Objective: Akathisia, a common side effect of psychotropic medications, poses a significant challenge in neuropsychiatry, affecting up to 30% of patients on antipsychotics. Despite its prevalence, akathisia remains poorly understood, with difficulties in diagnosis, patient reporting, and treatment efficacy. This research aimed to shed light on effective interventions to improve akathisia management. Methods: A systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was conducted, encompassing controlled trials in English and Italian languages. Databases, such asPubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE, were searched until July 9, 2023. Treatment effectiveness was assessed using standardized mean differences (SMDs) in post-treatment akathisia scores. Results: Thirteen studies involving 446 individuals met the inclusion criteria. Benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, and NaSSA demonstrated significant efficacy as compared with placebo. Anticholinergic, anticonvulsant, triptan, and other treatments did not show significant differences. Benzodiazepines ranked highest in P -scores (0.8186), followed by beta-blockers and NaSSA. Conclusions: Effective management of akathisia is crucial, with benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, and NaSSA offering evidence-based options. Treatment rankings provide guidance for clinicians. Future research should prioritize larger, more robust studies to address limitations associated with small sample sizes and publication bias. This research enhances our understanding of interventions for akathisia, offering promising options to improve patient quality of life and prevent complications related to non-adherence and mismanagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cariprazine, a third-generation antipsychotic (TGAs), has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of schizophrenia with good tolerability profile. Actual real-world literature data are lacking, particularly when exploring its efficacy in the long term. The present study examined the effects of cariprazine treatment on specific psychopathological domains with a particular focus on outcomes and side effects in real-life experience, after a longterm treatment. Methods: The present 12-month longitudinal naturalistic study included a sample of subjects with a DSM-5-TR diagnosis of schizophrenia, recruited in the outpatients' psychiatric services of university and community hospitals in Italy, naturally treated with cariprazine. The assessments included: a sociodemographic data sheet, the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM-5 (SCID-5), the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) and the St. Hans Rating Scale (SHRS). The PANSS was also administered after 6 (T1) and 12 (T2) months of treatment with cariprazine while the SHRS at T1. Results: The total sample consisted of 31 patients, 15 males and 16 females. A significant decrease of the PANSS' subscales, Marder factors and total mean scores emerged at both T1 and T2 with respect to T0. Extrapyramidal symptoms occurred in a minority of patients and in mild or mild/moderate forms: no patient showed moderate forms of psychic/motor akathisia or dystonia, three subjects showed moderate parkinsonism. Conclusions: This study confirms a good efficacy profile of cariprazine in both positive and negative symptoms in patients with Schizophrenia, combined with a good tolerability profile in extrapyramidal symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) can cause significant morbidity and impact negatively on patients' quality of life. Clinical guidelines provide recommendations regarding screening frequency and the use of structured tools to ensure adequate monitoring of EPS. Despite this, the literature indicates that the documentation and monitoring of EPS remain suboptimal. Aims: To devise an intervention that would lead to the improvement in the documentation and hence monitoring of EPS. Methods: An initial paper chart survey was conducted to assess the current extent of documentation and monitoring of EPS carried out in patient files of three distinct settings in our Mental Health Service (MHS): inpatient, rehabilitation, and assertive outreach. An intervention aimed at improving practice was subsequently designed and implemented. This involved adoption by the MHS of a new EPS monitoring tool and delivery of an educational session regarding its use. The extent of documentation and monitoring of EPS was re-surveyed post-intervention. Results: Initially, only 14.8% of inpatient records contained evidence of EPS documentation while no evidence at all was found across the other two MHS settings. Following the intervention, there was evidence of guideline concordant EPS monitoring using a structured tool in the clinical records of 75% of inpatients, 79.6% in the rehabilitation setting, and 18% in the assertive outreach programme. Conclusion: Documentation of EPS monitoring improved significantly across several settings affiliated with a Dublin North City MHS following the systematic adoption of the Extrapyramidal Symptom Scale (EPSS) and clinician education regarding its use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract AimThe aim of this study is to summarize the spontaneous reports of tardive dyskinesia (TD) and extrapyramidal symptoms (EPSs) that occurred in Japan over the past decade. MethodsThe study analyzed TD and EPS cases reported in the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report database between April 2011 and March 2021. The cases were stratified by the diagnoses of schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and depressive disorders. ResultsIn total, 800 patients including a total of 171 TD cases and 682 EPS cases were reported in the JADER database across psychiatric diagnosis. The cases were caused by first‐generation antipsychotics (FGA, TD: n = 105, EPS: n = 245) and second‐generation antipsychotics (SGA, TD: n = 144, EPS: n = 598). The SGA were categorized based on Neuroscience‐based Nomenclature (NbN) regarding pharmacological domain and mode of action, which were reported evenly as the offending agents. Among reported treatment and outcome in TD cases (n = 67, 37.6%) and EPS cases (n = 405, 59.3%), the relatively limited number of TD cases were reported as recovered/improved was also limited (n = 32, 47.8%) compared to those of EPS cases (n = 266, 65.7%). Some cases still had residual symptoms or did not recover fully (TD: n = 21, 31.3%, EPS: n = 77, 19.0%). Conclusion Tardive dyskinesia and EPS have been widely reported in Japan over the past decade across psychiatric diagnoses and antipsychotic classes. Limitations It is important to acknowledge the presence of reporting bias and the lack of comparators to accurately assess risks. Owing to the nature of spontaneous reporting, the estimation of prevalence is not feasible.

Background: The side effect of Parkinsonism due to chlorpromazine emerged three years after its approval for public use, leading to the understanding that conventional anti-psychotics could induce various Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS). Drug-Induced Parkinsonism (DIP) generally surfaces within days to weeks, but rare instances present delayed onset. Case Presentation: We present a case involving a 28-year-old male exhibiting drug-induced Parkinsonism triggered by a chlorpromazine-based regimen, three months following its initiation. Subsequent symptom relief was observed post-discontinuation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AimThe aim of this study is to summarize the spontaneous reports of tardive dyskinesia (TD) and extrapyramidal symptoms (EPSs) that occurred in Japan over the past decade. MethodsThe study analyzed TD and EPS cases reported in the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report database between April 2011 and March 2021. The cases were stratified by the diagnoses of schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and depressive disorders. ResultsIn total, 800 patients including a total of 171 TD cases and 682 EPS cases were reported in the JADER database across psychiatric diagnosis. The cases were caused by first‐generation antipsychotics (FGA, TD: n = 105, EPS: n = 245) and second‐generation antipsychotics (SGA, TD: n = 144, EPS: n = 598). The SGA were categorized based on Neuroscience‐based Nomenclature (NbN) regarding pharmacological domain and mode of action, which were reported evenly as the offending agents. Among reported treatment and outcome in TD cases (n = 67, 37.6%) and EPS cases (n = 405, 59.3%), the relatively limited number of TD cases were reported as recovered/improved was also limited (n = 32, 47.8%) compared to those of EPS cases (n = 266, 65.7%). Some cases still had residual symptoms or did not recover fully (TD: n = 21, 31.3%, EPS: n = 77, 19.0%). Conclusion: Tardive dyskinesia and EPS have been widely reported in Japan over the past decade across psychiatric diagnoses and antipsychotic classes. Limitations: It is important to acknowledge the presence of reporting bias and the lack of comparators to accurately assess risks. Owing to the nature of spontaneous reporting, the estimation of prevalence is not feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundCariprazine, a third-generation antipsychotic (TGAs), has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of schizophrenia with good tolerability profile. Actual real-world literature data are lacking, particularly when exploring its efficacy in the long term. The present study examined the effects of cariprazine treatment on specific psychopathological domains with a particular focus on outcomes and side effects in real-life experience, after a long-term treatment.MethodsThe present 12-month longitudinal naturalistic study included a sample of subjects with a DSM-5-TR diagnosis of schizophrenia, recruited in the outpatients’ psychiatric services of university and community hospitals in Italy, naturally treated with cariprazine. The assessments included: a sociodemographic data sheet, the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM-5 (SCID-5), the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) and the St. Hans Rating Scale (SHRS). The PANSS was also administered after 6 (T1) and 12 (T2) months of treatment with cariprazine while the SHRS at T1.ResultsThe total sample consisted of 31 patients, 15 males and 16 females. A significant decrease of the PANSS’ subscales, Marder factors and total mean scores emerged at both T1 and T2 with respect to T0. Extrapyramidal symptoms occurred in a minority of patients and in mild or mild/moderate forms: no patient showed moderate forms of psychic/motor akathisia or dystonia, three subjects showed moderate parkinsonism.ConclusionsThis study confirms a good efficacy profile of cariprazine in both positive and negative symptoms in patients with Schizophrenia, combined with a good tolerability profile in extrapyramidal symptoms.

Metoclopramide has been the cornerstone of gastroparesis management for the past 40 years as it is the only FDA-approved medication for gastroparesis. Other medications such as erythromycin and domperidone have been used off-label with variable efficacy. Historically, metoclopramide has been used in oral, intravenous, and subcutaneous formulations. It is an antiemetic and prokinetic medication that acts through the inhibition of central (chemoreceptor trigger zone) and peripheral dopaminergic and serotogenic receptors. Due to its antidopaminergic effects, extrapyramidal symptoms have been reported, with the most feared adverse event being tardive dyskinesia. Subsequently, the FDA issued a metoclopramide black box warning label in February 2009 due to its risk of causing tardive dyskinesia, which can be irreversible. The incidence and prevalence of tardive dyskinesia among metoclopramide users have been variable in different studies. However, upon review of the current literature, the true prevalence of tardive dyskinesia seems to be lower than previously thought. This review will focus on metoclopramide and the extrapyramidal symptoms associated with its use.

Background: The Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale – Abbreviated (ESRS-A) is an abbreviated version of the Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale (ESRS) with instructions, definitions, and a semi-structured interview that follows clinimetric concepts of measuring clinical symptoms. Similar to the ESRS, the ESRS-A was developed to assess four types of drug-induced movement disorders (DIMD): parkinsonism, akathisia, dystonia, and tardive dyskinesia (TD). Summary: The present review of the literature provides the most relevant clinimetric properties displayed by the ESRS and ESRS-A in clinical studies. Comprehensive ESRS-A definitions, official scale, and basic instructions are provided. ESRS inter-rater reliability was evaluated in two pivotal studies and in multicenter international studies. Inter-rater reliability was high for assessing both antipsychotic-induced movement disorders and idiopathic Parkinson's disease. Guidelines were also established for inter-rater reliability and the rater certification processes. The ESRS showed good concurrent validity with 96% agreement between Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) for TD-defined cases and ESRS-defined cases. Similarly, concurrent validity for ESRS-A total and subscores for parkinsonism, akathisia, dystonia, and dyskinesia ranged from good to very good. The ESRS was particularly sensitive for detecting DIMD-related movement differences following treatment with placebo, antipsychotics, and antiparkinsonian and antidyskinetic medications. ESRS measurement of drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms was shown to discriminate extrapyramidal symptoms from psychiatric symptoms. Key Messages: The ESRS and ESRS-A are valid clinimetric indices for measuring DIMD. They can be valuably implemented in clinical research, particularly in trials testing antipsychotic medications, and in clinics to detect the presence, severity, and response to treatment of movement disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antipsychotic-induced catatonia is an iatrogenic and debilitating adverse reaction, but there is a dearth of recent documented cases. This report describes a 35-year-old incarcerated Korean-American male with a history of unspecified psychosis who presented for antipsychotic induced catatonia after administration of haloperidol decanoate intramuscular (200 mg across the span of 1 week). Neurologic workup was performed including MRI, lumbar puncture, and electroencephalography. Despite an approximate month long hospitalization, benzodiazepine challenge, benztropine trial, and amantadine adjunct, our patient continued to experience bradykinesia, waxy flexibility, and mask-like facies, and was minimally verbally responsive. Several challenges in the treatment of incarcerated individuals at the hospital are highlighted in this case report, including adverse reaction to medication, difficulty of care coordination, and limited access to health records among providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metoclopramide has been the cornerstone of gastroparesis management for the past 40 years as it is the only FDA-approved medication for gastroparesis. Other medications such as erythromycin and domperidone have been used off-label with variable efficacy. Historically, metoclopramide has been used in oral, intravenous, and subcutaneous formulations. It is an antiemetic and prokinetic medication that acts through the inhibition of central (chemoreceptor trigger zone) and peripheral dopaminergic and serotogenic receptors. Due to its antidopaminergic effects, extrapyramidal symptoms have been reported, with the most feared adverse event being tardive dyskinesia. Subsequently, the FDA issued a metoclopramide black box warning label in February 2009 due to its risk of causing tardive dyskinesia, which can be irreversible. The incidence and prevalence of tardive dyskinesia among metoclopramide users have been variable in different studies. However, upon review of the current literature, the true prevalence of tardive dyskinesia seems to be lower than previously thought. This review will focus on metoclopramide and the extrapyramidal symptoms associated with its use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Antipsychotics differ in their propensity to cause akathisia. • The dose-response curves for akathisia in most antipsychotics are either monotonic or hyperbolic, indicating that higher doses carry a greater or equal risk compared to lower doses. • Monitoring is needed when prescribing antipsychotics that carry a high risk of akathisia at certain doses. Antipsychotic-induced akathisia is severely distressing. We aimed to investigate relationships between antipsychotic doses and akathisia risk. We searched for randomised controlled trials that investigated monotherapy of 17 antipsychotics in adults with acute schizophrenia until 06 March 2022. The primary outcome was the number of participants with akathisia, which was analysed with odds ratios (ORs). We applied one-stage random-effects dose-response meta-analyses using restricted cubic splines to model the dose-response relationships. We included 98 studies (343 dose arms, 34,225 participants), most of which were short-term and had low-to-moderate risk of bias. We obtained data on all antipsychotics except clozapine and zotepine. In patients with acute exacerbations of chronic schizophrenia, from moderate to high certainty of evidence, our analysis showed that sertindole and quetiapine carried negligible risks for akathisia across examined doses (flat curves), while most of the other antipsychotics had their risks increase initially with increasing doses and then either plateaued (hyperbolic curves) or continued to rise (monotonic curves), with maximum ORs ranging from 1.76 with 95% Confidence Intervals [1.24, 2.52] for risperidone at 5.4 mg/day to OR 11.92 [5.18, 27.43] for lurasidone at 240 mg/day. We found limited or no data on akathisia risk in patients with predominant negative symptoms, first-episode schizophrenia, or elderly patients. In conclusion, liability of akathisia varies between antipsychotics and is dose-related. The dose-response curves for akathisia in most antipsychotics are either monotonic or hyperbolic, indicating that higher doses carry a greater or equal risk compared to lower doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The extrapyramidal system is part of the central nervous system (CNS) involved in motor control. Extrapyramidal symptoms include a variety of acute and chronic movement disorders caused by medications. Currently, antipsychotic medications are the mainstay of treatment for schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders and can cause extrapyramidal symptoms. The St. Hans Rating Scale (SHRS) is a multidimensional scale designed to quantify the severity of dystonia, parkinsonism, akathisia, and dyskinesia caused by antipsychotic drugs. This scale has not yet been translated into Persian so far. Considering the importance of assessing the quality of life in patients with severe or chronic psychiatric disorders, this study aimed to translate the SHRS into Persian and evaluate its validity and reliability. Also, we presented the software version of the SHRS. Methods. This descriptive-analytical (methodological) study was performed on patients with psychiatric disorders treated with antipsychotic medications. After translating the SHRS into Persian, the validity and reliability of the Persian version was evaluated and the necessary corrections were made. Then, the Persian version was back-translated into English, followed by re-translation into Persian. A total of 30 patients were examined for extrapyramidal symptoms using the prepared version. The expert group concluded that there is no need to translate SHRS. Results. Regarding face validity, Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.99 and reliability was 0.99. The mean scores by the first psychiatrist were 2.03 in the first visit and 2.1 in the second visit. These scores were 2 in the first visit and 2.03 in the second visit by the second psychiatrist. Conclusion. The software version of SHRS has good reliability and validity and can be used to evaluate the extrapyramidal symptoms of patients. Practical Implications. English version of the SHRS and its application for cellphone can be used to assess extrapyramidal symptoms.

Introduction: Drug-induced open bite is one of the extrapyramidal symptoms with abnormal tonus of muscles and is rarely recognized in dentistry. This is a retrospective case study to investigate clinical characteristics including detailed complaints in patients with drug-induced open bite. Methods: Of the outpatients who first visited the psychosomatic dental clinic at the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital between September 2013 and September 2022, the patients diagnosed with drug-induced open bite were involved in this study. The clinical characteristics including sex, age, detailed complaints, duration of illness, abnormal findings, psychotropic medications, and other medications that were taken at the first examination, psychiatric comorbidities, the duration of psychiatric diseases, and other medical histories were collected retrospectively by reviewing their medical chart. Results: Drug-induced open bite was found in 11 patients [women: 7, men: 4, median of age: 49 (36.5, 53) years old]. Difficulty in eating especially chewing was the major complaint (9/11, 81.6%) with the duration of illness as 48.0 (16.5, 66) months. Various degrees of open bite were observed. While some showed no occlusal contact on frontal teeth, some showed occlusal contact only on the second molars; moreover, the jaw showed a horizontal slide in a few patients. Three cases could be followed up for prognosis; while in one case the drug-induced open bite improved with 6 months of follow-up, two cases did not improve, and one showed extrusion of molars. All of them had psychiatric comorbidities with the most common diagnosis being schizophrenia (n = 5) and depression (n = 5) followed by insomnia (n = 1) and autism spectrum disorder (n = 1) including duplicated diagnosis. Nine patients (81.6%) had been undergoing treatment with antipsychotics of which three patients were also taking antidepressants. Discussion: Although a drug-induced open bite is a rare symptom, prudent medical interviews about symptoms, psychiatric comorbidities, and psychotropic medication history besides oral assessment are necessary to provide a precise diagnosis and appropriate management in collaboration between dentists and psychiatrists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Drug‐induced extrapyramidal syndrome (EPS) remains a major problem in clinical psychiatry. This study aimed to examine the factor structure of drug‐induced extrapyramidal symptoms observed in patients with schizophrenia and assessed using the Drug‐Induced Extrapyramidal Symptoms Scale (DIEPSS). Methods: The participants were 1478 patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia whose EPS was assessed using the DIEPSS in India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, and Taiwan in the 2016 REAP AP‐4 study. The records of the participants were randomly divided into two subgroups: the first for exploratory factor analysis of the eight DIEPSS items, and the second for confirmatory factor analysis. Results: The factor analysis identified three factors: F1 (gait and bradykinesia), F2 (muscle rigidity and tremor), and F3 (sialorrhea, akathisia, dystonia, and dyskinesia). Conclusion: The results suggest that the eight individual items of the DIEPSS could be composed of three different mechanisms: acute parkinsonism observed during action (F1), acute parkinsonism observed at rest (F2), and central dopaminergic mechanisms with pathophysiology other than acute parkinsonism (F3). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the start of the pandemic, there has been an increase in the incidence of psychiatric morbidity among those infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) and those indirectly affected by COVID‐19. There has been a considerable increase in the number of individuals with such psychiatric conditions as depression, acute stress disorders, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). About one‐third of patients with COVID‐19 are reported to have developed short and long‐term neuropsychiatric conditions such as delirium, agitation, altered consciousness, hypoxic encephalopathy encephalitis, dysexecutive syndrome, cerebrovascular complications (e.g., stroke), hypoxic encephalopathy, convulsions, neuromuscular dysfunction, demyelinating processes, or parkinsonism through several pathophysiological mechanisms. Nevertheless, as the pandemic progressed, data on neuropsychiatric manifestations implied that the pathologic capacity of COVID‐19 and its association with the onset and/or exacerbation of psychiatric morbidity indicate that COVID‐19 is potentially related to neuropsychiatric involvement. Patients with existing mental disorders under psychotropic treatment exposed to the COVID‐19 infection have been represented by an increased risk of worsened psychiatric symptoms and expanded drug side effects. The present study aimed to describe five pediatric patients with various psychiatric illness that experienced COVID‐19 infection and had potentially associated neuropsychiatric involvement, such as exacerbation of underlying psychiatric symptoms and extrapyramidal side effects. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to describe adolescents with COVID‐19 infection that presented with a series of manifestations in the form of an increase in extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) during exacerbation of underlying psychiatric disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-psychotics are the mainstay of treatment for Schizophrenia and psychotic disorders. Historically, anticholinergics have been prescribed to prevent or treat extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) associated with first-generation antipsychotics (FGAs). Even though newer antipsychotics are associated with markedly lower rates of EPS, concurrent anticholinergic use remains high. Use of these medications has potential for long-term side effects, worsening of EPS and poor adherence. We have briefly discussed the limited association between second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) and EPS, the efficacy of anticholinergics for different types of EPS, and summarized various national and international guidelines on the subject. In conclusion, there is no evidence for prophylactic use of anticholinergics with antipsychotics. Clinicians need to guard against this tendency to be unduly cautious.

Introduction: Synthetic cathinones are a heterogenous group of new psychoactive substances (NPS) with a surging prevalence of use. They are sold under the name of "Bath Salts," "Legal Highs" or "Research Chemical." It is a heterogeneous group of substances that have a varying binding selectivity and affinity. Due to limited availability of NPS screening tests, inadequate legislation, the exponential increases in availability of new NPS and the comorbid use of other illicit substances, scientific research remains scarce. As a result, insight in their mental and psychomotor effects is limited. Case description: We present a case of a 21-year-old woman with daily usage of synthetic cathinones, more specifically α-Pyrrolidinopentiophenone (α-PVP-better known as "Flakka"), α-Pyrrolidinohexiophenone (α-PHP) and alpha-Pyrrolidinoisohexaphenone (α-PHiP). Besides a severe paranoid psychotic state of mind, characterized by persecutory and somatic delusions, there was also a very pronounced psychomotor restlessness during the whole period of hospitalization which was diagnosed as akathisia. She reported that she was unable to sit during meals, had difficulty standing still and felt a constant urge to pay attention to the restlessness. The patient did not take any antipsychotic medication at admission. Results: The patient was treated in accordance with the current guidelines concerning akathisia with a combination of Quetiapine 200 mg, Propranolol 80 mg, Diazepam 10 mg, Biperiden 4 mg, and Mirtazapine 15 mg without any sufficient alleviation of complaints. Before the start of the treatment, Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale (BARS) score was 11 out of 14 which evolved toward a score of 7 over the course of the 40 day hospitalization, implying persisting severe akathisia which only improved modestly. Conclusion: The current case suggests that besides cocaine, amphetamines and methamphetamines, synthetic cathinones can also increase the risk for development of extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia. Especially a-PVP-analogs as used by the current patient and Pyrovalerone-analogs such as Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) are very powerful dopamine reuptake-inhibitors which might lead to strong locomotor activation. Up to this day it remains very difficult to establish a guideline concerning the treatment of intoxication with synthetic cathinones or dependence thereof. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although generally effective in ameliorating the core manifestations of schizophrenia, antipsychotics (APs) may lead to only suboptimal responses or may be associated with a variety of treatment-related adverse events which require additional treatment strategies. Under such clinical circumstances, switching APs represents a rational treatment option. The present study aimed to identify the variables that predict AP switch and to quantify the frequency of this phenomenon in people with schizophrenia in real-life. A secondary analysis was conducted on the data collected at baseline and at a 4-year follow-up from a large sample of community-dwelling Italian people with schizophrenia. Demographic and clinical variables as well as information about AP treatment were recorded at two time points. Over the 4-year period, 34.9% of the 571 participants switched the AP; in particular, 8.4% of participants switched from first-generation APs (FGAs) to second-generation APs or vice versa, while 8.2% of them switched to clozapine. Logistic regression models showed that combination of APs at baseline was negatively associated with AP switch, while treatment with FGAs and the presence of extrapyramidal symptoms at baseline were associated with AP class switch. Although the aim of the present study was not to assess predictors of clinical relapse in people with schizophrenia, we might speculate that switching APs represents a surrogate indicator of treatment failure in some patients and could lead into relapse, which is a costly aspect of schizophrenia management in both economic and human terms. The sooner such a negative outcome can be predicted and managed, the sooner the treatment can be optimized to avoid it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionSynthetic cathinones are a heterogenous group of new psychoactive substances (NPS) with a surging prevalence of use. They are sold under the name of “Bath Salts,” “Legal Highs” or “Research Chemical.” It is a heterogeneous group of substances that have a varying binding selectivity and affinity. Due to limited availability of NPS screening tests, inadequate legislation, the exponential increases in availability of new NPS and the comorbid use of other illicit substances, scientific research remains scarce. As a result, insight in their mental and psychomotor effects is limited.Case descriptionWe present a case of a 21-year-old woman with daily usage of synthetic cathinones, more specifically α-Pyrrolidinopentiophenone (α-PVP-better known as “Flakka”), α-Pyrrolidinohexiophenone (α-PHP) and alpha-Pyrrolidinoisohexaphenone (α-PHiP). Besides a severe paranoid psychotic state of mind, characterized by persecutory and somatic delusions, there was also a very pronounced psychomotor restlessness during the whole period of hospitalization which was diagnosed as akathisia. She reported that she was unable to sit during meals, had difficulty standing still and felt a constant urge to pay attention to the restlessness. The patient did not take any antipsychotic medication at admission.ResultsThe patient was treated in accordance with the current guidelines concerning akathisia with a combination of Quetiapine 200 mg, Propranolol 80 mg, Diazepam 10 mg, Biperiden 4 mg, and Mirtazapine 15 mg without any sufficient alleviation of complaints. Before the start of the treatment, Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale (BARS) score was 11 out of 14 which evolved toward a score of 7 over the course of the 40 day hospitalization, implying persisting severe akathisia which only improved modestly.ConclusionThe current case suggests that besides cocaine, amphetamines and methamphetamines, synthetic cathinones can also increase the risk for development of extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia. Especially a-PVP-analogs as used by the current patient and Pyrovalerone-analogs such as Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) are very powerful dopamine reuptake-inhibitors which might lead to strong locomotor activation. Up to this day it remains very difficult to establish a guideline concerning the treatment of intoxication with synthetic cathinones or dependence thereof.

Introduction: Driving motorized vehicles is an integral part of individual mobility and a key parameter for employment and social integration. This naturalistic, cross-sectional study investigated the associations between driving fitness, residual symptomatology, olanzapine equivalent, and extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) in long term stable outpatients with schizophrenia. Methods: Beside sociodemographic data, and driving habits, residual symptoms, and EPS were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and the Modified Simpson Angus Scale (MSAS). PANSS symptoms were analyzed using the Wallwork/Fortgang five-factor model. MSAS cut-off scores ≥3 were defined as positive for EPS. Driving skills were assessed using the Vienna Test System and an expert evaluation. Results: 50 patients were included into the study. Mean PANSS total scores indicated mild residual symptomatology and EPS were not present in 48% of study participants. 44% passed the driving fitness assessment and were considered as competent to drive, 20% were judged to be partially competent and 36% to be incompetent to drive. With the exception of disorganization (r = −0·287, p = 0·048) residual symptoms of schizophrenia did not correlate with driving fitness. However, moderate negative correlations were detected between driving fitness and the severity of EPS (r = −0·554, p = 0·000), age (r = −0·413, p = 0·003) as well as olanzapine equivalent doses (r = −0·432, p = 0·002). These results were not corrected for multiple comparison. Discussion: The present findings indicate that up to two thirds of clinically stable outpatients with chronic schizophrenia may be (partially) competent to drive. Both the presence of EPS as well as the dosage of antipsychotic medication seem to be of particular relevance in this regard.

Extrapyramidal (EP) symptoms are a known feature in a subpopulation of patients with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD). Concomitant EP symptoms with FTD-like neuropsychiatric symptoms are also core features in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal degeneration (CBD). This complicates the early diagnosis of these disorders. Our retrospective register study aimed to discover imaging (MRI and FDG-PET) biomarkers to differentiate PSP, CBD, and bvFTD patients with extrapyramidal symptoms (EP +) from bvFTD patients without EP symptoms (EP-). The records of 2751 patients were screened for the diagnoses and presence of EP symptoms. A total of 222 patients were submitted to imaging analysis and applicable imaging data were recovered from 139 patients. Neuroimaging data were analyzed using Freesurfer software. In the whole cohort, EP + patients showed lower volumes of gray matter compared to EP- patients in the putamen (p = 0.002), bilateral globus pallidum (p = 0.002, p = 0.042), ventral diencephalon (p = 0.002) and brain stem (p < 0.001). In the bvFTD subgroup, there was volumetric difference between EP + and EP− patients in the brain stem. FDG-PET scans in the bvFTD patient subgroup showed that EP + patients had comparative hypometabolism of the superior cerebellar peduncle (SCP) and the frontal lobes. We discovered that EP symptoms are linked to brainstem atrophy in bvFTD patients and the whole cohort. Also, evident hypometabolism in the SCP of bvFTD EP + patients was detected as compared to bvFTD EP− patients. This could indicate that the EP symptoms in these diseases have a more caudal origin in the brainstem than in Parkinson's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Medical Journal of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences is the property of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Anti-psychotics are the mainstay of treatment for Schizophrenia and psychotic disorders. Historically, anticholinergics have been prescribed to prevent or treat extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) associated with first-generation antipsychotics (FGAs). Even though newer antipsychotics are associated with markedly lower rates of EPS, concurrent anticholinergic use remains high. Use of these medications has potential for long-term side effects, worsening of EPS and poor adherence. We have briefly discussed the limited association between second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) and EPS, the efficacy of anticholinergics for different types of EPS, and summarized various national and international guidelines on the subject. In conclusion, there is no evidence for prophylactic use of anticholinergics with antipsychotics. Clinicians need to guard against this tendency to be unduly cautious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug-induced parkinsonism has been commonly studied and discussed regarding antipsychotic agents, but lithium-induced parkinsonism should also be considered when patients present with parkinsonian symptoms and chronic lithium use. There are several reports of parkinsonism arising during lithium administration and regressing following its reduction or discontinuation. Our case is, to date, the first case in the literature in which vocal cord paralysis occurred as the first symptom of lithium-induced parkinsonism, contributing to confuse doctors and patients and to delay diagnosis and treatment. In our clinical case prompt withdrawal of lithium and its reintroduction at lower doses led to complete resolution of this disabling clinical presentation. This report emphasizes the importance of careful monitoring of lithium levels, especially in elderly subjects, and the need to consider lithium-induced parkinsonism even when unusual motor symptoms appear in chronic lithium users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Aim Few studies have investigated the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in long‐stay inpatients with chronic schizophrenia in Japan. This study aimed to clarify the factors associated with HRQoL among these patients. Methods Out of 238 patients with chronic schizophrenia admitted to three hospitals, 101 inpatients provided informed consent to participate in the study. The patients' HRQoL was assessed using two instruments: the EuroQol 5 dimensions (EQ‐5D) as a generic index and the Subjective Well‐being Under Neuroleptic Treatment Scale, Japanese Version (SWNS‐J) as a disease‐specific index. We examined the factors associated with these HRQoL indices using multiple linear regression models. Results The patients' mean age was 62.9 years, and 51.5% were female. The mean (standard deviation) EQ‐5D score and SWNS‐J total score were 0.776 (0.177) and 83.5 (16.5), respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that the EQ‐5D score was significantly and negatively associated with the female sex, benzodiazepine use, and Drug‐Induced Extrapyramidal Symptoms Scale scores. In contrast, the SWNS‐J total score was significantly and negatively associated with first‐generation antipsychotics use, Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale scores, Drug‐Induced Extrapyramidal Symptoms Scale scores, and Global Assessment of Functioning scale scores. Conclusion This study identified the factors associated with two HRQoL indices among long‐stay inpatients with chronic schizophrenia in Japan. Although the analyses showed differences in the associated factors between the generic EQ‐5D and the disease‐specific SWNS‐J, extrapyramidal symptoms as adverse effects of antipsychotic treatment were found to be associated with both indices.

Background: Antipsychotic and sedative combinations are commonly used for treating agitation in the emergency department despite limited evidence regarding their comparative safety and efficacy.Objectives: To compare the efficacy and safety of combination haloperidol, lorazepam, and diphenhydramine (B52) to combination haloperidol and lorazepam (52) in treating acute agitation.Methods: This multicenter, retrospective cohort study included adult patients ≥ 18 years of age who received either B52 or 52 at a Banner Health facility between August 2017 and September 2020. Patients were excluded if they had a pre-existing movement disorder or were withdrawing from alcohol. The primary outcome was administration of additional agitation medication(s) within 2 h of B52 or 52. Secondary outcomes included incidence of extrapyramidal symptoms, length of stay, and additional safety measures.Results: There was no difference in administration frequency of additional agitation medication(s) (B52: n = 28 [14%] vs. 52: n = 40 [20%]; p = 0.11). Patients who received 52 were more likely to require an antimuscarinic medication within 2 days (15 vs. 6 patients, p = 0.04). Of the patients who received an antimuscarinic medication, none had documented extrapyramidal symptoms. The 52 group had shorter length of stay (13.8 vs. 17 h; p = 0.03), lower incidence of hypotension (7 vs. 32 patients; p < 0.001), and oxygen desaturation (0 vs. 6 patients; p = 0.01), and fewer physical restraints (53 vs. 86 patients; p = 0.001) compared with the B52 group.Conclusions: Both the B52 and 52 combinations infrequently required repeat agitation medication; however, the B52 combination resulted in more oxygen desaturation, hypotension, physical restraint use, and longer length of stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of common adverse effects and management strategies related to atypical antipsychotic use. Conclusions: Atypical antipsychotics are commonly prescribed. While effective, atypical antipsychotics are associated with metabolic syndrome, extrapyramidal symptoms, and tardive dyskinesia, among others adverse effects. Management strategies can mitigate adverse effects and promote optimum quality of life. Practice Implications: To be able to identify and manage adverse effects associated with the use of atypical antipsychotics, it is important to build a supportive therapeutic environment at each interaction with patients and their caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Knowing the epidemiological profile is relevant for improving healthcare practices. Movement disorders are neurological disorders characterized by the presence of involuntary movements. They have a negative impact on patients’ quality of life. OBJECTIVES: To outline the frequencies of the different diagnoses seen among patients, along with their demographic characteristics, at a hospital in São Paulo (SP), Brazil, and to highlight the clinical aspects of those with Parkinson’s disease. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective descriptive epidemiological analysis at a specialized outpatient clinic in a state public hospital in São Paulo. METHODS: Patients treated at this clinic over a four-year period were analyzed. Diagnoses, demographic variables and associations with clinical aspects of Parkinson’s disease were evaluated. RESULTS: Out of the 680 medical records analyzed, 58.4% related to females. Most patients were over 60 years of age, white, married and teachers. The most frequent diagnosis was Parkinson’s disease, followed by essential tremor and dystonia. Parkinson’s disease presented in the mixed clinical form; the most common initial symptom was tremor. The akinetic-rigid clinical form occurred in younger individuals and mostly presented with postural instability and freezing of gait in the early years of disease. CONCLUSIONS: Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor and dystonia were the most frequent diagnoses. Characteristics like sex, frequency of other pathological conditions and the clinical and demographic aspects of Parkinson’s disease were consistent with the data in the relevant literature.

Objectives: The prevalence of dementia is growing rapidly worldwide. The early identification and treatment of cognitive decline could reduce the burden on the health care system. Our objective was to investigate whether factors measured at an examination at age 50 predict cognitive impairment (CI) 23 years later. Materials & Methods: In 1993 we enrolled a randomly selected sample of 798 men, 50 years of age, from the general population. They all underwent a physical examination, provided blood samples and filled out questionnaires addressing lifestyle and psychosocial factors. Cognitive testing was offered to all participants still alive in 2016, at age 73. Results: A total of 333 men participated in the cognitive study, of which 80 (24.0%) performed at a level corresponding to mild cognitive impairment, and four (1.2%) at a level consistent with severe cognitive impairment. After the first step in the multivariable analysis, hypertension, heavy smoking, high intake of alcohol, financial stress, difficulty falling asleep, and cogwheel rigidity were associated with cognitive impairment. After further adjustment, only wide waist circumference measured in cm (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.00–1.08, p =.04), leg pendulousness (OR 41.97, 95% CI 3.27–538.62, p =.004) and self‐assessed hidden irritability (OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.10–4.32, p =.03) at baseline, remained as being associated with cognitive impairment 23 years later. Conclusions: Extrapyramidal symptoms such as leg pendulousness, at the age of 50, may be an indicator for very early identification of future cognitive decline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to describe atypical dyskinesias (AtypDs) occurring during treatment with antipsychotic drugs (APDs). AtypDs are dyskinesias showing either an unusual temporal relationship between onset of treatment and start of the adverse drug reaction (ADR) or an unusual presentation of clinical symptoms. Data on the utilisation of APDs and reports of severe APD-induced AtypDs were collected using data from the observational pharmacovigilance programme – 'Arzneimittelsicherheit in der Psychiatrie (English: drug safety in psychiatry)' (AMSP) – from 1993 to 2016. A total of 495,615 patients were monitored, of which 333,175 were treated with APDs. Sixty-seven cases (0.020%) of severe AtypDs under treatment with APDs were registered. The diagnoses of schizophrenic disorders as well as organic mental disorders were related to significantly higher rates of AtypDs. Second-generation antipsychotic drugs (SGAs) showed slightly higher rates of AtypDs (0.024%) than high-potency (0.011%) or low-potency first-generation antipsychotic drugs (FGAs; 0.006%). In 41 cases (61.2%), two or more drugs were found to cause AtypDs. Our study indicates that AtypDs are rare ADRs. SGAs may have a higher risk for the occurrence of AtypDs than FGAs. Clinicians should be aware of this ADR and patients should be monitored and examined carefully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The negative symptoms of schizophrenia include volitional (motivational) impairment manifesting as avolition, anhedonia, social withdrawal, and emotional disorders such as alogia and affective flattening. Negative symptoms worsen patients' quality of life and functioning. From the diagnostic point of view, it is important to differentiate between primary negative symptoms, which are regarded as an integral dimension of schizophrenia, and secondary negative symptoms occurring as a result of positive symptoms, comorbid depression, side effects of antipsychotics, substance abuse, or social isolation. If secondary negative symptoms overlap with primary negative symptoms, it can create a false clinical impression of worsening deficit symptoms and disease progression, which leads to the choice of incorrect therapeutic strategy with excessive dopamine blocker loading. Different longitudinal trajectories of primary and secondary negative symptoms in different schizophrenia stages are proposed as an important additional discriminating factor. This review and position paper focuses primarily on clinical aspects of negative symptoms in schizophrenia, their definition, phenomenology, factor structure, and classification. It covers the historical and modern concepts of the paradigm of positive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia, as well as a detailed comparison of the assessment tools and psychometric tests used for the evaluation of negative symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) are common side-effects of second-generation antipsychotics (SGA), that can negatively impact patient quality-of-life, and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This study examined the incidence and burden of EPS in patients with schizophrenia initiating SGAs. Patients with schizophrenia initiating SGAs were identified in the MarketScan Multi-state Medicaid database from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2018. Incidence of EPS (identified via ICD-9/ICD-10 diagnoses and medications) was assessed during the 12-months following SGA initiation. Cohorts with and without EPS were defined. Multivariate models were used to examine all-cause and schizophrenia-related hospitalizations and total costs in the 12 months following the first EPS claim (EPS) or randomly assigned index date (Non-EPS) while controlling for multiple baseline covariates. Logistic regression was used for hospitalization and two-part models were used for skewed cost data. A total of 11,642 patients with schizophrenia filled a prescription for an SGA; of which, 2,468 (21.2%) experienced EPS in the first year. The age- and gender-matched EPS group and non-EPS group included 2,295 and 5,607 patients, respectively. Multivariate analyses confirmed that EPS patients had 25% higher odds of all-cause (OR = 1.25; 95% CI = 1.11–1.40) and 75% increased odds of schizophrenia-related (OR = 1.75; 95% CI = 1.53–2.00) inpatient admissions compared to non-EPS patients. Multivariate adjustment of post-period costs between groups also found significant differences in both all-cause (EPS: $27,408 vs. non-EPS: $22,489, p < 0.001) and schizophrenia-related (EPS:$12,833 vs. non-EPS:$8,077, p < 0.0001) costs between the EPS and non-EPS cohorts. Over one-fifth of patients initiating treatment with atypical antipsychotics in this study developed EPS in the 12 months following SGA initiation. Extrapyramidal side-effects associated with atypical antipsychotics increase the risk of hospitalization and contribute to higher healthcare costs. For patients with schizophrenia, treatment options that minimize the risk of EPS may reduce the economic burden associated with the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The negative symptoms of schizophrenia include volitional (motivational) impairment manifesting as avolition, anhedonia, social withdrawal, and emotional disorders such as alogia and affective flattening. Negative symptoms worsen patients' quality of life and functioning. From the diagnostic point of view, it is important to differentiate between primary negative symptoms, which are regarded as an integral dimension of schizophrenia, and secondary negative symptoms occurring as a result of positive symptoms, comorbid depression, side effects of antipsychotics, substance abuse, or social isolation. If secondary negative symptoms overlap with primary negative symptoms, it can create a false clinical impression of worsening deficit symptoms and disease progression, which leads to the choice of incorrect therapeutic strategy with excessive dopamine blocker loading. Different longitudinal trajectories of primary and secondary negative symptoms in different schizophrenia stages are proposed as an important additional discriminating factor. This review and position paper focuses primarily on clinical aspects of negative symptoms in schizophrenia, their definition, phenomenology, factor structure, and classification. It covers the historical and modern concepts of the paradigm of positive and negative symptoms in schizophrenia, as well as a detailed comparison of the assessment tools and psychometric tests used for the evaluation of negative symptoms.

Oculogyric crisis (OGC) is an acute dystonic reaction characterized by involuntary upward deviation of the eyes, often linked to the use of antipsychotic medications. While commonly associated with first-generation antipsychotics (FGAs) due to their higher propensity to cause extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), OGC remains a rare but documented occurrence with second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs). SGAs, including olanzapine, are generally preferred in clinical practice due to their reduced risk of EPS; however, they are not completely devoid of such adverse effects. The emergence of OGC in the context of SGAs, particularly in unique clinical scenarios, highlights the importance of awareness and careful management of potential adverse effects in clinical practice. This case report presents a rare instance of OGC in a 25-year-old postpartum woman following an independent reduction in her olanzapine dosage, a medication usually associated with a low risk of dystonia. The patient, with no previous psychiatric history, had been treated with olanzapine for postpartum depression with psychotic features and demonstrated stability. The onset of OGC, occurring three months after the initiation of olanzapine and precipitated by stressors such as interpersonal conflicts and high-pressure situations, underscores the critical need for comprehensive patient education on the dangers of unsupervised medication adjustments. It also highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring, particularly in vulnerable populations, such as postpartum patients. This case underscores the necessity for individualized treatment approaches and highlights the rarity and clinical significance of OGC in patients on SGAs, contributing to the understanding of atypical presentations associated with these medications., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Bokhari et al.)

Antipsychotic medications, while crucial in managing severe psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, are frequently associated with extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) and tardive dyskinesia (TD). TD, characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements, especially of the face and limbs, poses a substantial clinical challenge due to its often irreversible nature. Conventional management strategies, including dose reduction and switching to atypical antipsychotics, frequently offer limited success, prompting exploration of alternative therapies. This case report highlights the effectiveness of vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, in treating a 28-year-old male with severe antipsychotic-induced EPS and TD, unresponsive to traditional therapies. The patient, who had been receiving paliperidone injections as part of his psychotic disorder treatment regimen, developed marked EPS, including muscle rigidity, a parkinsonian gait, significant motor disturbances as well as tardive dyskinesia. Despite discontinuation of paliperidone and initiation of procyclidine, propranolol, clonazepam, and omega-3 supplements, his symptoms persisted. Introduction of oral vitamin E at 400 IU daily led to a dramatic improvement, with an 80% reduction in EPS and TD symptoms within weeks. The patient's Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) score decreased from 24 to 4, and his overall quality of life improved significantly. Gradual increase of vitamin E dosage to 1200 IU daily, coupled with tapering of other medications, eventually led to complete resolution of symptoms, as evidenced by an AIMS score of 0. The patient maintained symptom-free status during follow-up, with no recurrence of psychotic symptoms. This case underscores the potential role of vitamin E as a viable adjunctive treatment for TD, particularly in patients who do not respond adequately to conventional therapies. While the literature presents mixed evidence regarding vitamin E's effectiveness, this case adds to the growing body of research suggesting its benefits, especially when introduced early in the disease course. Further large-scale studies are warranted to establish the most effective treatment protocols and identify patient populations most likely to benefit from vitamin E therapy., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Elnoor et al.)

Over the years, the growing "epidemic" spread of cocaine use represents a crucial public health and social problem worldwide. According to the 2023 World Drug Report, 0.4% of the world's population aged 15 to 64 report using cocaine; this number corresponds to approximately 24.6 million cocaine users worldwide and approximately 1 million subjects with cocaine use disorder (CUD). While we specifically know the short-term side effects induced by cocaine, unfortunately, we currently do not have exhaustive information about the medium/long-term side effects of the substance on the body. The scientific literature progressively highlights that the chronic use of cocaine is related to an increase in cardio- and cerebrovascular risk and probably to a greater incidence of psychomotor symptoms and neurodegenerative processes. Several studies have highlighted an increased risk of antipsychotic-induced extrapyramidal symptoms (EPSs) in patients with psychotic spectrum disorders comorbid with psychostimulant abuse. EPSs include movement dysfunction such as dystonia, akathisia, tardive dyskinesia, and characteristic symptoms of Parkinsonism such as rigidity, bradykinesia, and tremor. In the present paper, we propose a model of interpretation of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the hypothesized increased vulnerability in chronic cocaine abusers to neurodegenerative disorders with psychomotor symptoms. Specifically, we supposed that the chronic administration of cocaine produces significant neurobiological changes, causing a complex dysregulation of various neurotransmitter systems, mainly affecting subcortical structures and the dopaminergic pathways. We believe that a better understanding of these cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in cocaine-induced neuropsychotoxicity may have helpful clinical implications and provide targets for therapeutic intervention.

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a potentially irreversible movement disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements, most commonly affecting the face, tongue, and extremities. It is primarily associated with the long-term use of first-generation (typical) antipsychotics but can also occur with second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics such as aripiprazole. Despite its lower risk profile, aripiprazole can induce TD, as illustrated by a 45-year-old woman with schizophrenia who developed severe involuntary movements after five years of stable treatment with this medication. Her symptoms, including facial grimacing and choreiform movements, were assessed using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS), scoring 18, indicative of moderate to severe TD. Following a switch to clozapine and the addition of valbenazine, a VMAT2 inhibitor, the patient experienced significant symptom reduction and improved quality of life. This case emphasizes the need for ongoing monitoring of TD in patients on long-term antipsychotic therapy, even with atypical agents. Effective management strategies, including medication adjustment and the use of VMAT2 inhibitors, are crucial for optimizing patient outcomes and quality of life. Continued research is needed to better understand and address TD in clinical practice., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Mulla et al.)

This case report presents the challenging clinical scenario of a middle-aged male patient with a decade-long history of psychiatric illness on chronic neuroleptic therapy. The patient's symptoms initially manifested as tremors a year ago, subsequently progressing to resting tremors, head titubation, and impaired mobility. Typically, Drug-Induced Parkinsonism (DIP) occurs within three months of initiating neuroleptic treatment, this case presents a unique and prolonged timeline, raising questions about the underlying aetiology complexed with patients' imaging studies revealing age related atrophy. The bilateral and symmetrical motor signs observed align with DIP characteristics, although studies report asymmetrical signs, introducing diagnostic complexities. This case emphasizes the need for further research on understanding the effect of chronic neuroleptic use, age-related structural alterations, and the potential unmasking of underlying Parkinsonism for improving diagnostic accuracy and tailoring effective management strategies for patients with similar challenging presentations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug-induced dystonias are rare but can occur with second-generation antipsychotics. They are usually dose-related and occur soon after dose initiation. This case describes the development of dystonia after two years of olanzapine 5 mg daily in an older person with Alzheimer's dementia. The dystonia resolved after diphenhydramine treatment on day two of hospitalization, but then the patient became delirious, which was treated with lorazepam on day three. Six days after admission, she developed tremors and rigidity that self-resolved. Her dystonia resolved after 11 days. The recurrence of symptoms during the hospitalization may have been a result of the progression of her dementia. This is the first known case of a patient developing dystonia after chronic use of low-dose olanzapine. This was not characterized as tardive dystonia because the dystonia was resolved with anticholinergic medication. This case illustrates the difficulty of using anticholinergics to treat dystonias in older people, which can precipitate delirium. Choosing an alternative antipsychotic with less extrapyramidal symptom risk is challenging as she had previous trials with quetiapine and risperidone. Clozapine was deemed an unfavorable alternative, as laboratory monitoring would be burdensome. Olanzapine-induced dystonias can develop anytime during therapy. Families must balance the desire for mood stabilization with antipsychotics side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundThe risk of persistent tardive dyskinesia (TD) was compared in patients with acute psychosis or agitation aged 55 years or older who were treated with olanzapine (OLZ) or conventional antipsychotic (CNV) drug therapy.MethodsPatients without TD were randomized to treatment with OLZ (2.5-20 mg/d; n = 150) or CNV (dosed per label; n = 143). Following a 6-week drug tapering/initiation period, patients without TD were treated with OLZ or CNV for up to 1 year. The a priori defined primary outcome end point was persistent TD defined as Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) scores = 2 on at least 2 items or ≥3 on at least 1 item (items 1-7) lasting at least for 1 month (Criterion A). Post hoc analyses assessed persistent TD meeting the criterion of moderate severity defined as AIMS score ≥3 on at least 1 item persisting for 1 month (Criterion B) and probable TD defined as elevated AIMS scores (Criterion A or B) not persisting for 1 month. Treatment groups were compared using Kaplan-Meier curve with log-rank exact test.ResultsOn average, patients were 78 years of age; the predominant diagnosis was dementia (76.7% in the OLZ group and 82.5% in the CNV group). Approximately, 40.6% of patients in the CNV group received haloperidol. No significant difference in time to developing persistent TD was observed during treatment with OLZ or CNV (cumulative incidence: OLZ, 2.5% [95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.5-7.0]; CNV, 5.5% [95% CI: 2.1-11.6], P = .193). The exposure-adjusted event rates per 100 person-years were not significantly different between treatment groups: OLZ (2.7) and CNV (6.3; ratio: 0.420; 95% CI: 0.068-1.969). Post hoc analyses revealed a significantly lower risk of at least moderately severe persistent TD persisting for 1 month (P = .012) and probable TD not persisting for 1 month (Criterion A, P = .030; Criterion B, P = .048) in OLZ-treated patients. For those patients without significant extrapyramidal symptoms at baseline, significantly more patients in the CNV treatment group developed treatment-emergent parkinsonism than for patients in the OLZ treatment group (CNV: 70%, 35 of 50 patients; OLZ 44%, 25 of 57 patients; P = .011). No significant difference between the groups was observed for treatment-emergent akathisia (CNV: 6%, 7 of 117 patients; OLZ: 10%, 13 of 130 patients; P = .351).ConclusionThe cumulative incidence of persistent TD was low and the risk of persistent TD did not differ significantly among predominantly older adult patients having dementia with acute psychosis or agitation treated with OLZ or CNV.

Prochlorperazine is frequently used in the treatment of refractory nausea and migraines. Known side effects include extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia and dystonia. We report a pregnant patient taking prochlorperazine for hyperemesis gravidarum who developed hemidystonia, which triggered an acute code stroke response from prehospital, emergency medicine and neurology providers. We suspect this report to be the first case of prochlorperazine-induced hemidystonia as a stroke mimic.

OBJECTIVE: Akathisia is among the most troubling effects of psychiatric drugs as it is associated with significant distress on behalf of the patients, and it limits treatment adherence. Though it most commonly presents during treatment with antipsychotic drugs which block dopamine D2 receptors, Akathisia has also been reported during treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), stimulants, mirtazapine, tetrabenazine and other drugs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This article was designed as a narrative review on akathisia with a focus on its clinical presentation, pathophysiology and management. A PubMed search for akathisia was conducted which returned 8481 articles. RESULTS: Akathisia is experienced as severe restlessness commonly accompanied by dysphoria and purposeless movement which relieves subjective tension. It has been attributed to an imbalance between dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurotransmission in the basal ganglia. Acute akathisia commonly resolves upon treatment discontinuation but tardive and chronic akathisia may persist after the causative agent is withdrawn and prove resistant to pharmacological treatment. Even drugs which induce no other extrapyramidal side effects (such as clozapine, quetiapine, aripiprazole and cariprazine) may induce akathisia. A high index of suspicion should be maintained in patients with motor disabilities, drug-induced parkinsonism and those under mechanical restraint. Propranolol and low-dose mirtazapine are the most thoroughly studied pharmacological interventions for akathisia, though benzodiazepines, voltage- gated calcium channel blockers (gabapentin, pregabalin) and opioids may be effective. CONCLUSIONS: Pharmacological management may pose a challenge in chronic akathisia. Rotation between different pharmacological management strategies may be optimal in resistant cases. Discontinuation of the causative drug and use of b-blockers, mirtazapine, benzodiazepines or gabapentinoids for symptomatic relief is the basis of management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]