The 20% That Matters Most: Must-Know Medications & Safety Red Flags

Antipsychotics (for Schizophrenia/Psychosis)

• Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS): Include acute dystonia (severe muscle cramping/spasms), akathisia (intense internal restlessness), and pseudoparkinsonism. Priority action: Treat immediately with anticholinergics like benztropine (Cogentin) or diphenhydramine.
• Tardive Dyskinesia (TD): Irreversible involuntary movements (e.g., lip-smacking, tongue thrusting) caused by long-term use. Priority: Prevention and monitoring using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale.
• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A rare, fatal idiosyncratic reaction. Red F ...