Drug-induced movement disorders in children

Semin Pediatr Neurol. 2003 Mar;10(1):80-7. doi: 10.1016/s1071-9091(02)00013-x.

Abstract

The increased use of stimulants, antipsychotic agents, and antidepressant drugs in children by primary care physicians, psychiatrists, and neurologists has inevitably led to increased numbers of pediatric patients manifesting the side effects of these agents, many of which are movement disorders. Unlike the isolated abnormal involuntary movements associated with drugs prescribed for epilepsy or asthma, movement syndromes (eg, acute dystonic reaction, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, serotonin syndrome, tardive dyskinesia) associated with psychotropic drugs are complex, difficult to recognize, and potentially seriously disabling. Accurate clinical identification of these drug-induced syndromes is critical to engaging the proper therapeutic intervention for them.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Central Nervous System Agents / adverse effects*
  • Central Nervous System Agents / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Dyskinesia, Drug-Induced / diagnosis*
  • Dyskinesia, Drug-Induced / etiology
  • Dyskinesia, Drug-Induced / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders / drug therapy

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Agents