What is the most common cause of nonadherence to antipsychotic pharmacologic treatment?

Question

a. Expense
b. Increased symptoms of chemical dependency
c. Extrapyramidal effects
d. Inability of the patient to understand the need to take medications

Answer 1

ANS: C
Extrapyramidal effects are the most common reason for nonadherence to antipsychotic therapy. The four categories of extrapyramidal effects are dystonic reactions, pseudoparkinsonism, akathisia, and tardive dyskinesia. Although expense may be a concern, it is not the most common reason for noncompliance. Chemical dependency is not a feature of therapy with antipsychotic drugs. Although knowledge deficit is a concern, it is not the most common reason for noncompliance.