What condition describes a state of agitation and distress caused by antipsychotic medications?

Akathisia is a condition characterized by a state of inner restlessness and an uncontrollable need to be in constant motion. It is often a side effect of antipsychotic medications, particularly the older, typical antipsychotics. Individuals experiencing akathisia may find it difficult to remain seated or still, often pacing or shifting their weight from one leg to the other. This can lead to significant distress and agitation, which is why it is important for patients taking these medications to be monitored for such side effects.

In contrast to akathisia, dystonia involves sustained muscle contractions, abnormal postures, or twisting movements and is typically less associated with the feelings of restlessness and agitation found in akathisia. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition associated with an excess of serotonin due to the use of certain medications but is not directly linked to antipsychotics. Tricyclic antidepressants are a class of medications used primarily to treat depression and do not specifically describe a distress state caused by antipsychotics. Thus, akathisia is the most accurate description of the agitation and distress caused by antipsychotic medications.