Akathisia is a movement disorder characterized by a feeling of inner restlessness and a compelling need to be in constant motion, as well as by actions such as rocking while standing or sitting, lifting the feet as if marching on the spot, and crossing and uncrossing the legs while sitting. People with akathisia are unable to sit or keep still, are prone to feelings of restlessness, and they may also fidget, rock from foot to foot, and pace
Antipsychotics (also known as neuroleptics), particularly the first generation antipsychotics, are the leading cause of akathisia. When antipsychotic-induced, akathisia is an extrapyramidal side effect.
Akathisia is also a symptom of psychosis, bipolar disorder, and agitated depression. Akathisia is a component of the repetitive movements in some cases of autism and intellectual disability.Other known causes include side effects of other medications, and nearly any physical dependence-inducing drug during drug withdrawal. It is also associated with Parkinson’s disease and related syndromes