Acute Neuroleptic-Induced Akathisia

Acute neuroleptic-induced akathisia is a movement disorder that is induced by some medications such as neuroleptic drugs and the reduction or discontinuation of drugs used to treat Parkinson's Disease.

Akathisias are movement disorders with symptoms of restlessness, nervous movements, and the urge to be in constant motion. Fidgeting and repetitive movements such as swaying and crossing/uncrossing arms and legs are common. Neuroleptic-induced akathisia is caused by medications.

Medications known to induce this condition are antidepressants like selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and antipsychotics such as haloperidol. It can also be caused by withdrawal from drug addiction to opiates, cocaine, barbiturates, and benzodiazepines.