Beta-blockers for akathisia

ß-blockers for akathisia

Akathisia is best managed by prevention. However, when symptoms do present, the dosage of the antipsychotic should be decreased or the medication changed to an atypical antipsychotic until the alleviation of symptoms.

β-blockers are the most effective intervention for treating akathisia. Propranolol is the agent of choice and is given three times a day with maximal symptom response seen after 1 week.

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The 25 year old patient with the acute psychotic episode (earlier question) displays now increasing aggression. The best treatment for the patient is: