What is one method to manage parkinsonism caused by antipsychotics?

Managing parkinsonism caused by antipsychotics often involves addressing the underlying movement disorder that arises as a side effect of these medications. In this context, lowering the dose of the antipsychotic or adding an anticholinergic medication is a well-established approach.

Antipsychotics, particularly the first generation or typical ones, can block dopamine receptors, which can lead to extrapyramidal symptoms, including parkinsonism. Reducing the dose of the antipsychotic can help alleviate these symptoms while still allowing for some therapeutic effects.

Adding an anticholinergic medication, such as benztropine or trihexyphenidyl, can also counteract the effects of dopamine blockade. These medications work by restoring the balance between dopamine and acetylcholine in the brain, thus helping to relieve the symptoms of parkinsonism.

This method effectively targets the side effects of the antipsychotic treatment while maintaining the patient's overall mental health management. The choice of this strategy is a common practice among clinicians treating patients who develop parkinsonism due to antipsychotic medications.