The management of neuroleptic-induced CNS effects.

Basal ganglia side effects caused by the neuroleptic drugs include the acute extrapyramidal syndromes (dystonias, akathisia and parkinsonism) and tardive dyskinesia. These may be ignored, misdiagnosed or mistreated by the patient or physician. Because the neuroleptics are effective in the treatment and secondary prevention of serious psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, it is important that neurological side effects be anticipated and appropriately managed. This increases patient compliance and enhances the therapeutic relationship. Patients should be examined frequently and systematically for basal ganglia side effects. (Can Fam Physician 1981; 27:1615-1624).