akathisia
Pronunciation: ak-uh-THIGH-zee-uh
A movement disorder characterized by restlessness and an inability to sit still, often caused by antipsychotic medications.
Full Definition
Akathisia is a drug-induced movement disorder that presents as subjective feelings of restlessness accompanied by an inability to sit or stand still. It is one of the most common extrapyramidal side effects of antipsychotic medications, particularly first-generation (typical) antipsychotics. The condition can be extremely distressing for patients and may lead to treatment non-compliance if not properly managed. Editors should note that this term is often misspelled and confused with other movement disorders in clinical documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Often misspelled as 'acathisia' in clinical notes.
In Context
- "The patient developed severe akathisia within 48 hours of starting haloperidol therapy." — Clinical progress note
- "Akathisia assessment should be conducted regularly in patients receiving antipsychotic treatment." — Treatment protocol