Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Drug-induced Parkinsonism (DIP) is a recognized extrapyramidal side effect (EPS) associated with prolonged antipsychotic therapy, and typically occurs early in antipsychotic initiation. We present a rare case of late-onset DIP in a 64-year-old previously incarcerated male veteran with schizophrenia, who had been maintained on risperidone for nearly 40 years without regular psychiatric follow-up. The patient presented with a one-month progression of rigidity, dysarthria, and dysphagia. Upon admission, neurological evaluation revealed significant cogwheel rigidity, slow speech, flat affect, and dysdiadochokinesia consistent with DIP. Treatment involved gradual tapering of risperidone, introduction of benztropine for symptomatic relief, and initiation of aripiprazole to maintain psychiatric stability. Symptoms markedly improved, reaffirming the diagnosis of DIP over idiopathic Parkinson's disease. This case emphasizes the importance of regular medication review and follow-up in managing antipsychotic therapy to prevent severe EPS complications, particularly in vulnerable populations such as incarcerated individuals and military veterans.
Source: Cureus
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.98525
Authors: Brian R Bailey, Ashley Mason, Vien Dinh
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4417045686