Appropriate use of anticholinergics

Abstract

Drug-induced movement disorders, including drug-induced parkinsonism, dystonia, akathisia, and tardive dyskinesia, are common adverse effects of dopamine receptor blockers, such as antipsychotics (especially first-generation agents). Anticholinergic medications are commonly used to treat extrapyramidal symptoms and drug-induced movement disorders. However, the multiple etiologies of the various types of abnormal movement disorders suggest that even though their presenting symptoms might be similar, different drug-induced movement disorders should not be treated with the same medication.