Antipsychotic-induced akathisia in delirium: A systematic review Journal Article


Authors: Espi Forcen, F.; Matsoukas, K.; Alici, Y.
Article Title: Antipsychotic-induced akathisia in delirium: A systematic review
Abstract: Objective: Akathisia is a neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by subjective and objective restlessness. It is a common side effect in patients taking antipsychotics and other psychotropics. Patients with delirium are frequently treated with antipsychotic medications that are well known to induce akathisia as a side effect. However, the prevalence, phenomenology, and management of akathisia in patients with delirium remain largely unknown. The purpose of this review was to examine the medical literature in order to establish the current state of knowledge regarding the prevalence of antipsychotic-induced akathisia in patients with delirium. Method: A systematic review of the literature was conducted using the EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL databases. Ten studies addressing the incidence of akathisia in patients taking antipsychotic medication for delirium were identified and included in our review. Results: The included studies reported a variable prevalence of antipsychotic-induced akathisia. A higher prevalence was found in patients taking haloperidol. Among atypical antipsychotics, paliperidone and ziprasidone were associated with a higher risk of akathisia. The risk for akathisia appeared to be a dose-related phenomenon. Significance of results: Studies using specific scales for evaluation of akathisia in delirium are lacking. Some populations, such as patients with cancer or terminally ill patients in palliative care settings taking antipsychotics for the treatment of delirium, could be at higher risk for development of akathisia as a side effect. Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2015.
Keywords: akathisia; delirium; antipsychotics
Journal Title: Palliative and Supportive Care
Volume: 14
Issue: 1
ISSN: 1478-9515
Publisher: Cambridge University Press  
Date Published: 2016-02-01
Start Page: 77
End Page: 84
Language: English
DOI: 10.1017/S1478951515000784
PROVIDER: scopus
PUBMED: 26087817
PMCID: PMC5516628
DOI/URL:
Notes: Review -- Export Date: 3 March 2016 -- Source: Scopus
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  1. Yesne Alici
    94 Alici