Akathisia: clinical phenomenology and relationship to tardive dyskinesia

Compr Psychiatry. 1992 Jul-Aug;33(4):233-6. doi: 10.1016/0010-440x(92)90046-s.

Abstract

Akathisia and tardive dyskinesia (TD) are disorders of movement that are often associated with administration of antipsychotic medication. We surveyed 196 outpatients in a schizophrenia clinic, all receiving antipsychotic medication, for the presence of these disorders. Clinical global ratings of akathisia were reliable. Akathisia was found in 36% of patients, and TD in 23.5%. Akathisia was disproportionately common in patients receiving high-potency neuroleptics. The data affirmed recent revisions in the dose-equivalence formulas used with fluphenazine decanoate. Akathisia and TD did not seem to be interrelated. Because akathisia is common and often limits medication dose and contributes to noncompliance, psychiatrists must take this into account when prescribing antipsychotic medication.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Akathisia, Drug-Induced*
  • Ambulatory Care
  • Antipsychotic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Chlorpromazine / adverse effects
  • Chlorpromazine / therapeutic use
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Dyskinesia, Drug-Induced / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neurologic Examination / drug effects
  • Psychomotor Agitation / diagnosis
  • Schizophrenia / drug therapy*
  • Schizophrenic Psychology*

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Chlorpromazine