Extrapyramidal syndrome and depression induced by flunarizine.
Apathy, mood depression and extrapyramidal signs consisting of akinesia, amimia, gait apraxia, slight rigidity and tremor were induced in 10 patients by long-term treatment with flunarizine for trivial complaints. These symptoms suggest a mild antidopaminergic activity of flunarizine. Long-term administration of flunarizine should be avoided particularly in the elderly and in patients with extrapyramidal disorders.
Institute of Neurology, University of Bologna, Italy.
A
A
Lugaresi
P
P
Montagna
R
R
Gallassi
E
E
Lugaresi
D000368:Aged; D001480:Basal Ganglia Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology; D003863:Depression / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D005444:Flunarizine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
D005444:Flunarizine