Akathisia: a life-threatening side effect of a common medication

BMJ Case Rep. 2013 May 21:2013:bcr2012007713. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2012-007713.

Abstract

The authors describe the case of a 38-year-old man with a history of schizoaffective disorder, who attempted suicide following the recent starting of a neuroleptic agent that resulted in the development of intolerable akathisia. He survived the attempt, and following changes in his medications the akathisia resolved with no further suicidal ideation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Akathisia, Drug-Induced / etiology
  • Akathisia, Drug-Induced / psychology*
  • Antipsychotic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Phenothiazines / adverse effects*
  • Psychotic Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Suicide, Attempted / psychology*

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Phenothiazines
  • pipothiazine