Previously Incarcerated Veteran: A Case of Drug-Induced Parkinsonism.
Previously Incarcerated Veteran: A Case of Drug-Induced Parkinsonism.
Where did the research take place?
The study site has not been established. Author addresses may differ from where the research occurred.
Clearwater, US · Author affiliation
Emergency Medicine, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Clearwater, USA.Location evidence
Tampa, US · Author affiliation
Neurology, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, USA.Location evidence
St. Petersburg, US · Author affiliation
Psychiatry, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, St. Petersburg, USA.Location evidence
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Original abstract
Drug-induced Parkinsonism (DIP) is a recognized extrapyramidal side effect (EPS) associated with prolonged antipsychotic therapy, and typically occurs early in antipsychotic initiation. We present a rare case of late-onset DIP in a 64-year-old previously incarcerated male veteran with schizophrenia, who had been maintained on risperidone for nearly 40 years without regular psychiatric follow-up. The patient presented with a one-month progression of rigidity, dysarthria, and dysphagia. Upon admission, neurological evaluation revealed significant cogwheel rigidity, slow speech, flat affect, and dysdiadochokinesia consistent with DIP. Treatment involved gradual tapering of risperidone, introduction of benztropine for symptomatic relief, and initiation of aripiprazole to maintain psychiatric stability. Symptoms markedly improved, reaffirming the diagnosis of DIP over idiopathic Parkinson's disease. This case emphasizes the importance of regular medication review and follow-up in managing antipsychotic therapy to prevent severe EPS complications, particularly in vulnerable populations such as incarcerated individuals and military veterans.