Synopsis of Chemical and Drug-Related Agents That Cause Movement Disorders

Drug-induced movement disorder (DIMD) is often reversible and secondary to the drugs and substances used. While Parkinsonism is the most common, other movement disorders such as akathisia, tremor, and acute dystonic reactions (ADRs) are also frequently seen due to many agents. DIMDs may be acute and fatal, such as neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) or serotonin syndrome (SS), or maybe seen as tardive syndromes due to long-term exposure. DIMDs exhibit several characteristics that make them easily recognizable, including a well-defined relationship between the start of medication and the emergence of symptoms, a dose-dependent effect, and full recovery upon cessation of the causative substance (except for tardive syndromes). DIMDs are not uncommon and significantly impact on functionality but are often under-recognized or overlooked and not managed appropriately. Identification of risk factors and prevention for DIMDs, if not prevented, early diagnosis and management is a critical consideration in prescribing medications that can cause movement disorders. This chapter focuses on the clinical manifestations, epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of ADRs, acute-subacute akathisia, drug-induced Parkinsonism, drug-induced tremor, tardive syndromes, NMS, and SS. © 2025 Springer Nature Switzerland AG.