Neuroleptic-induced catatonia after abrupt withdrawal of amantadine during neuroleptic therapy

Abstract

Catatonic reactions to high-potency neuroleptic drugs have been described in the literature. Our patient developed neuroleptic-induced catatonia (NIC) after abrupt withdrawal of amantadine, a dopaminergic agent that has been implicated in neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) on its discontinuation. This case report adds support to the hypothesis that NIC and NMS are 2 syndromes on a continuum of dopamine blockade, each of which may be treated with or uncovered by amantadine therapy.