Unpleasant, uncomfortable muscular tension and restlessness, generally caused by medications such as neuroleptic antipsychotics. Also spelled “acathisia”.
Example: A schizophrenic man starts taking a neuroleptic. He soon begins restless pacing. When he’s seated, his legs continue to move.
Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 25 Sep 2008
