Question

A 29-year-old man presents to the emergency department complaining of visual hallucinations. The patient has a history of schizophrenia and one week ago he was advised to take medication to relieve extrapyramidal side effects associated with the use of antipsychotic drug chlorpromazine. On examination, the patient has dry mouth associated with dilated pupils and warm skin. His pulse rate is 128 bpm. After the offending agent is held, which of the following medications may be indicated?

A. Atropine
B. Dantrolene
C. Haloperidol
D. Lorazepam
E. Physostigmine

Answer 1

Physostigmine may be indicated as a medication to relieve the symptoms of anticholinergic toxicity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the symptoms described, the patient is experiencing anticholinergic toxicity. The medication that may be indicated after holding the offending agent is Physostigmine. Physostigmine is a reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that increases the levels of acetylcholine in the brain, which can help restore the balance of neurotransmitters and alleviate the symptoms of anticholinergic toxicity.