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Sleepwalking, A Possible Side Effect of Antipsychotic Medication

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Abstract

Two case examples and a review of the sleep literature illustrate the potential of antipsychotic medication to trigger sleepwalking episodes in the context of schizophrenia. Causative hypotheses are briefly reviewed, as well as risk factors, differential diagnosis, and management. Sleepwalking may contribute to delusions, aggression, and accidental suicide. It is important to investigate sleep disorders in schizophrenia. They are not rare and may contribute to behavior that increases the stigma and isolation of individuals with schizophrenia.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University of Toronto, 250 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada

    Mary V. Seeman

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  1. Mary V. Seeman
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Correspondence to Mary V. Seeman.

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Seeman, M.V. Sleepwalking, A Possible Side Effect of Antipsychotic Medication. Psychiatr Q 82, 59–67 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11126-010-9149-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11126-010-9149-8

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