Managing Side Effects: Akathisia

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The content provided in this Substack post is for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the writer and should not be taken as definitive or authoritative. Readers should not rely solely on the information provided in this post to make decisions about patient care. Instead, use this content as a starting point for further research and consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to treatment or medication regimens.

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Understanding Akathisia: An Unsettling Side Effect

Akathisia is a prevalent yet often misunderstood side effect of several medications, prominently including antipsychotics, antidepressants, and antiemetics. This condition primarily manifests as a deep-seated feeling of inner restlessness paired with an urgent need to move. Despite its frequency, it's not uncommon for medical practitioners to misread the signs, sometimes confusing worsening symptoms of the underlying illness with akathisia, leading to misguided treatment decisions.

Throughout this post we will focus on the symptoms & recognition of akathisia. Additionally, we will cover some commonly made mistakes & management tips- specifically we will discuss what works well & what doesn’t work at all.

Symptoms and Diagnosis: At the heart of akathisia is a subjective sense of discomfort. Patients may find themselves pacing incessantly, shifting their weight, or displaying an inability to remain seated. It's essential to understand that akathisia involves both a patient's vocalized distress and