Akathisia: better detection is needed

Akathisia—restlessness; from the Greek “not to sit”—is an important side effect to consider in patients prescribed antipsychotics, antiemetics, or antidepressants. Yet even in psychiatric settings, it is not well recognised. Akagi and Kumar (p 1506) report three patients who improved when the offending drug was discontinued. They suggest that on diagnosis the offending or suspected drug should be withdrawn or the dose reduced. When this is not possible propranolol or other lipophilic blockers are considered to be the most effective.

(Credit: MEPL)