Escitalopram-induced akathisia in a patient with major depressive disorder: A rare case report

Abstract

Medication-induced akathisia is restlessness with excessive movements developing after initiation/ increasing or decreasing the dose of drugs. Herein, we reported the case of a 38-year-old widowed mother of two children, a known case of major depressive disorder and type 2 diabetes mellitus, who presented with akathisia for 1 month following the use of escitalopram. The patient scored 3 on the Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale global assessment. She was managed by decreasing the offending agent dose and adding clonazepam and propranolol. Her condition gradually improved, and she did not have akathisia by the end of 2 weeks. It is crucial to identify medication-induced akathisia as it is rare and associated with suicidality. Hence, a high index of clinical suspicion and adequate management are warranted.