Ep. 011 - What is akathisia, and how to stop it?

Ep. 011 - What is akathisia, and how to stop it?

Ever felt like you just can't sit still, like there's an itch you can't scratch? You might be dealing with akathisia, a side effect of certain medications that's often hard to pin down. In this episode of 'Ask a Psychiatrist,' Dr. Erik Messamore breaks down what akathisia feels like, why it happens, and how to manage it. Imagine feeling like you want to crawl out of your own skin—that's how some people describe akathisia.

It's not just about being restless; it can come with irritability, anxiety, and even anger. Dr. Messamore emphasizes that this isn't the same as mania, which is crucial for getting the right treatment. He goes through the various medications that can trigger akathisia, including those for psychosis, schizophrenia, and even some antidepressants. But don't worry—there are ways to tackle it.

From lowering the dose of the culprit medication to switching to a different one or using side effect medications for quick relief, there are options. Dr. Messamore also shares stories from his own practice, highlighting the importance of talking to a qualified prescribing clinician to find the best solution for each individual. If you're feeling uneasy and can't figure out why, this episode is definitely worth your time.

Tune in to get a handle on akathisia and learn how to deal with it effectively.