Akinesia

Abstract

Akinesia is an extrapyramidal behavioral side-effect of antipsychotic medication characterized by a lessening of spontaneity, paucity of gestures, diminished conversation, and apathy. It can be easily confused with depression, demoralization, and residual schizophrenic defect. Studies of the value of maintenance antiparkinson medication usually overlook this common syndrome. We present eight case histories to illustrate this condition.