Extrapyramidal side effects are unacceptable

Extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) are a common and serious drawback to the use of conventional antipsychotic drugs. In addition to the discomfort and distress caused to patients, EPS may contribute to poor compliance and ultimately poor treatment outcome. The results of clinical trials with the new generation of atypical antipsychotics suggest that they are associated with a reduction in both early- and late-occurring EPS. All of the new-generation agents produce substantially fewer EPS, and reduce the need for antiparkinsonian medication, in comparison with haloperidol. Data from long-term studies suggest that new-generation antipsychotics are also associated with a reduced risk of tardive dyskinesia, particularly in the elderly. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science BY. All rights reserved.