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.