The Abrupt Withdrawal of Antiparkinsonian Drugs in Mentally Handicapped Patients

Abstract

Summary: Long-term antiparkinsonian medication given to 20 mentally handicapped patients also on neuroleptics was abruptly withdrawn. Transient extrapyramidal signs developed in most patients during the following four weeks but in 60 per cent had disappeared by 12 weeks. Reintroduction of medication was necessary in only three patients, who developed acute dystonic reactions within one week of withdrawal.