What is a common treatment for akathisia caused by antipsychotics?

What is a common treatment for akathisia caused by antipsychotics?

• A. Propranolol
• B. Clonazepam
• C. Haloperidol
• D. SSRIs

Answer: (A)

Propranolol is commonly used as an effective treatment for akathisia, particularly when it is induced by antipsychotic medications. Akathisia is characterized by an inner restlessness and a compelling need to be in constant motion, and it can significantly impact a patient's comfort and adherence to treatment. Propranolol, a non-selective beta-blocker, can help alleviate these symptoms by affecting adrenergic activity in the brain, thus providing relief from the discomfort associated with akathisia. In contrast, other treatments such as clonazepam may offer some symptomatic relief due to its anxiolytic and sedative properties, but they are typically not the first-line options. Haloperidol, while an antipsychotic, could potentially exacerbate symptoms of akathisia rather than alleviate them. SSRIs generally target depressive symptoms and are not effective for treating akathisia. Thus, propranolol stands out as a targeted approach specifically addressing the underlying pathophysiology associated with this condition.

Propranolol is commonly used as an effective treatment for akathisia, particularly when it is induced by antipsychotic medications. Akathisia is characterized by an inner restlessness and a compelling need to be in constant motion, and it can significantly impact a patient's comfort and adherence to treatment. Propranolol, a non-selective beta-blocker, can help alleviate these symptoms by affecting adrenergic activity in the brain, thus providing relief from the discomfort associated with akathisia.

In contrast, other treatments such as clonazepam may offer some symptomatic relief due to its anxiolytic and sedative properties, but they are typically not the first-line options. Haloperidol, while an antipsychotic, could potentially exacerbate symptoms of akathisia rather than alleviate them. SSRIs generally target depressive symptoms and are not effective for treating akathisia. Thus, propranolol stands out as a targeted approach specifically addressing the underlying pathophysiology associated with this condition.