Radioreceptor assay for measurement of anticholinergic drugs in serum

Abstract

Extrapyramidal side-effects (EPS) including Parkinsonian symptoms, dystonic reactions and akathisia frequently complicate use of neuroleptic drugs (Ayd, 1961; Donlon and Stenson, 1976). These iatrogenic symptoms, which are both stigmatizing as well as uncomfortable, deter many patients from compliance with neuroleptic treatment (Van Putten, 1974). Thus, the management of EPS must be considered an essential part in the effective treatment of psychotic disorders with neuroleptics. Reduction in neuroleptic dosage is usually not the primary strategy in controlling these side-effects because EPS correlate poorly with neuroleptic dose or therapeutic response (Alpert et al., 1978). Rather, co-treatment with the classical anti-Parkinsonian drugs, all of which block muscarinic receptors with the exception of amantadine, is the accepted approach for reducing EPS. Nevertheless, many patients persist in suffering from EPS in spite of treatment with recommended doses of anticholinergics (DiMascio, 1971).