Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS) are drug-induced movement disorders that occur due to antipsychotic medicines. EPS can cause movement and muscle control problems throughout the body, including the face, neck, arms, and legs. EPS can take several forms, including dystonia, akathisia, parkinsonism, tardive dyskinesia, and other movement disorders. These symptoms can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) . EPS are most commonly caused by typical antipsychotic drugs that antagonize dopamine D2 receptors. The most common typical antipsychotics associated with EPS are haloperidol and fluphenazine. Atypical antipsychotics have lower D2 receptor affinity or higher serotonin 5-HT2A receptor affinity, which lead to lower rates of EPS. Other anti-dopaminergic drugs, like the antiemetic metoclopramide, can also result in extrapyramidal side effects. Short and long-term use of antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI), and norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRI) have also resulted in EPS.

EPS can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional who will evaluate the patients symptoms and medical history. Often, other people notice involuntary movements before the patient does. If a patient takes an antipsychotic medication, it is important to talk to loved ones and close friends about the possibility of developing EPS. Treatment for EPS depends on the type and severity of the symptoms. Treatment options include reducing the dose of the medication causing the symptoms, switching to a different medication, or adding a medication to counteract the EPS. It is important to work with a healthcare professional to manage EPS and to monitor for early signs of tardive dyskinesia using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) .