Sections
Acute Dystonic Reactions | Parkinsonism and Akathisia | Tardive Dyskinesia and Tardive Dystonia | Prophylaxis of Extrapyramidal Side Effects | Depot Antipsychotics | Duration of Treatment
Excerpt
Intramuscular anticholinergics are the treatment of choice for
ADRs. Benztropine 2 mg or diphenhydramine 50–100 mg generally
will produce complete resolution within 20–30 minutes,
with a second dose repeated after 30 minutes if there is not a complete
recovery. Benztropine has been shown to resolve ADRs in less time
than diphenhydramine (Lee 1979). Starting a standing
dose of an antiparkinsonian agent afterward is generally not necessary. ADRs
do not recur, unless large doses of high-potency antipsychotics
are being used or unless the dose is increased. A more complete
discussion of prophylaxis is given below.