Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
extrapyramidal symptoms
Pronunciation: ex-tra-pyr-AM-ih-dal
Movement disorders caused by antipsychotic medications affecting the extrapyramidal motor system.
Full Definition
Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) are a group of movement-related side effects that result from blockade of dopamine receptors in the basal ganglia by antipsychotic medications. These symptoms include acute dystonia, parkinsonism, akathisia, and tardive dyskinesia. EPS can occur at any time during antipsychotic treatment and may be dose-related. Recognition and management of these symptoms are crucial for medication compliance and patient quality of life.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as EPS; encompasses multiple distinct movement disorders.
In Context
- "The patient developed extrapyramidal symptoms including tremor and rigidity after starting haloperidol." — adverse event report
- "Regular monitoring for extrapyramidal symptoms was implemented throughout antipsychotic treatment." — treatment plan
Also known as
EPS
movement disorders
Don't confuse with
tardive dyskinesia
neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Parkinson's disease