Ethological remarks on diagnosis and therapy of neuroleptic-induced akathisia

Akathisia was originally described as a functional syndrome by Lad Haskovec in 1901. In patients treated with neuroleptics akathisia is observed in up to 75%. Emotional symptoms and repetitive movement patterns are the core f eatures of akathisia. From a clinical perspective this neuroleptic side eff ect is particularly important because it is often misdiagnosed as psychotic agitation or sometimes even overlooked. The drug therapy of akathisia is s ometimes ineffective or its effect is delayed. However, the importance of n on-pharmacologic treatment strategies has been underrated. Applying etholog ical concepts, this paper deals with the analysis of the subjective experie nces and the behaviour of patients suffering from akathisia. As a result, e thological-founded consequences for the practical handling as useful additi on of the pharmacologically based therapy are discussed.