Acute Dystonic Reaction Associated With Foscarnet Administration

Abstract

Drug-induced movement disorders are commonly seen in the inpatient setting and outpatient movement disorders centers. The most common acute reactions are dystonia, parkinsonism, and akathisia. Drug-induced movement disorders are classically associated with dopamine receptor blocking agents, most notably typical and atypical antipsychotic medications. However, extrapyramidal side effects can also be seen with antiemetics, promotility drugs, serotonergic agents, and opioid agonists. We describe a patient who developed an acute dystonic reaction shortly after the administration of intravenous foscarnet, an antiviral agent. Her work-up for secondary causes of dystonia was otherwise negative, and her symptoms resolved after receiving intravenous anticholinergic treatment.