A 12-year-old patient with a diagnosis of early-onset schizophrenia presents …

Medicine Questions

A 12-year-old patient with a prior diagnosis of early-onset schizophrenia presents with a distorted position of his head, eyes rolling back into their head, and lip smacking. Which of the following medications would be necessary to treat this problem?A. HaloperidolB. OlanzapineC. RisperidoneD. Diphenhydramine

Short Answer

The patient shows symptoms of abnormal movements, suggesting conditions like tardive dyskinesia or acute dystonia, often related to antipsychotic medications. Diphenhydramine is recommended for treatment due to its effectiveness against acute dystonia, while other medications like Haloperidol, Olanzapine, and Risperidone may exacerbate the condition.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Identify the Symptoms

The patient exhibits symptoms of distorted head positioning, eyes rolling back, and lip smacking. These symptoms are indicative of abnormal involuntary movements, such as tardive dyskinesia or acute dystonia. Recognizing these signs is crucial in determining the correct treatment and understanding the underlying issue that may be connected to antipsychotic medications.

Step 2: Choose the Appropriate Medication

Among the treatment options available, Diphenhydramine is the most suitable medication for alleviating the symptoms of acute dystonia. Its antihistamine properties also offer anticholinergic effects that counteract the side effects caused by dopamine antagonists. In contrast, other medications like Haloperidol, Olanzapine, and Risperidone could worsen the patient’s condition by exacerbating movement disorders.

Step 3: Understand the Risks of Other Medications

While selecting a treatment, it is essential to be aware of the risks associated with alternative medications:

  • Haloperidol: Known for causing extrapyramidal symptoms.
  • Olanzapine: An atypical antipsychotic that carries risks for potential movement disorders.
  • Risperidone: Another atypical antipsychotic that may lead to similar side effects.

Recognizing these risks helps in understanding why Diphenhydramine is the preferred choice for the patient’s acute symptoms.

Related Concepts

Symptoms

Signs or indications that suggest a medical condition, such as abnormal involuntary movements in this context.

Tardive Dyskinesia

A disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive body movements often caused by long-term use of antipsychotic medications.

Acute Dystonia

A neurological condition causing sustained muscle contractions, abnormal postures, or twisting movements, often triggered by certain medications.

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