Neuroleptic-induced extrapyramidal symptoms and serum calcium levels. Results of a pilot study

In a prospective study, the association between neuroleptic-induced extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) and serum calcium levels with special regard to ionized calcium was investigated. The sample included 24 newly admitted psychotic patients who received neuroleptic treatment. The 11 patients in whom EPS developed had significant lower ionized calcium levels and a significant lower ionized calcium/total calcium ratio in the predrug period than the 13 patients without EPS. The difference in predrug total calcium between the same two groups did not reach significance. There was no decrease of calcium levels at the time of onset of EPS. pH values showed a significant negative correlation to ionized calcium levels. Protein levels were within the normal limits during neuroleptic treatment.