Antipsychotic Medications and Drug-Induced Movement Disorders

Course overview

Antipsychotic medications are used among older adults to treat chronic psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and are also used off-label to treat symptoms of hyperactive delirium and behavioral symptoms in the context of dementia. Antipsychotic use requires ongoing monitoring for potential side effects such as sedation, elevated blood sugar, weight gain, and anticholinergic side effects, such as blurry vision, constipation, and orthostasis. Additionally, antipsychotics may also cause drug-induced movement disorders, some of which may be non-reversible. This session will describe the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)- approved and off-label uses of antipsychotics among older adults and will improve your skills in monitoring for potential side effects of these medications. Assessment of drug-induced movement disorders, such as Parkinsonism, dystonia, akathisia, and dyskinesias, will be emphasized through clinical examples and the use of standardized rating instruments.