Neuroleptic medication for dystonia. Reciprocal relationship between effects on motor function and mood.

Abstract

The presence of dysphoric symptoms associated with neuroleptic medication is commonly reported. Neuroleptic treatment of a segmental dystonia resulted in a disabling depressive illness, which when treated with antidepressants led to the return of the involuntary movements. The use of several different antidepressants and neuroleptics confirmed the association between drugs and symptoms. Genetic studies excluded "poor metaboliser status" as a reason for the patient's sensitivity to these drugs. The case illustrates a delicate imbalance between dose of neuroleptic medication and depressive symptoms. We should be aware of the possibility of mood changes in patients treated with neuroleptics for a variety of conditions.