Drug-induced dystonic reactions

In the 12 unusual cases of drug-induced dystonic reaction discussed, major tranquilizers were ingested unaccompanied by anti-parkinsonian drugs. The five characteristics of the drug-induced dystonic reactions are oculogyric crisis, torticollic crisis, buccolingual crisis, opisthotonic crisis, and tortipelvic and gait crisis. Neuromuscular manifestations occur in the oculogyric, torticollic, buccolingual, opisthotonic and tortipelvic regions. The basic treatment is to discontinue major tranquilizers and administer anticholinergic agents to block the enhanced cholinergic function. Useful anticholinergic and antihistaminic agents for the treatment of drug-induced dystonic reactions are listed to aid in the selection of appropriate therapeutic remedies.