Question

What is akathisia?

intense need to move about; characterized by restless movement, pacing, inability to remain still, and the client's report of inner restlessness

This feeling of internal restlessness and the inability to sit still or rest often leads clients to discontinue their antipsychotic medication. Akathisia can be treated by a change in antipsychotic medication or by the addition of an oral agent such as a beta-blocker, anticholinergic, or benzodiazepine.

Answer 1

Akathisia is a side effect of antipsychotic medications characterized by an intense need to move, restlessness, and inner agitation. It can lead patients to discontinue their treatment but can be managed with medication adjustments or the addition of specific oral agents.

Step-by-step explanation:

What is Akathisia?

Akathisia is a condition that emerges as a potential side effect of antipsychotic medications, which are commonly prescribed for the treatment of psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. This condition is characterized by an intense need to move, often manifesting as restlessness, pacing, an inability to remain still, and a feeling of inner restlessness.

While antipsychotic drugs, also known as neuroleptics, can effectively reduce psychotic symptoms by blocking dopamine receptors, they can also lead to a reduction in initiative and interest in the environment, along with displays of emotion or affect.

Over time, antipsychotics can also lead to neuroleptic-induced akathisia, a particularly distressing side effect that can make patients feel internally compelled to move incessantly. This feeling of internal restlessness and the difficulty to stay still can be so uncomfortable that it leads some patients to discontinue their medication. However, akathisia can be managed with a change in antipsychotic medication or by adding treatment options such as beta-blockers, anticholinergics, or benzodiazepines to alleviate symptoms.