Catatonia
Korkeila, J.
Duodecim; laaketieteellinen aikakauskirja 132(15): 1321-1327
2016
ISSN/ISBN: 0012-7183 PMID: 29160631 Document Number: 685889
Catatonia is associated with psychomotor symptoms and severe disturbances of executive functioning. While the prognosis is good in most cases, malignant catatonia still continues to occur. The first-line choice for drug therapy is lorazepam, which usually results in a good response. In catatonic stupor, i.e. immobility and stupor, the first-line therapy is electrotherapy, preferably at an earliest possible stage. In mania, catatonia may become manifest also as psychomotor excitement. Electrotherapy can be used primarily in malignant catatonia, with dantrolene and bromocriptin also finding use in a critical situation.