A patient receiving ziprasidone for schizophrenia has Parkinson's-like symptoms. To decrease the Parkinson's-like side effects, the nurse should advocate for which of the following medications?

Explanation

• Benztropine (Cogentin) is an anticholinergic used to treat extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) in patients with Parkinson's disease or patients taking antipsychotics.

• EPS are commonly treated with anticholinergics such as benztropine, diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or other antihistamines, and trihexyphenidyl (Artane).

• Incorrect: Bethanechol is a cholinergic agonist and can potentially worsen extrapyramidal symptoms.

• Incorrect: Levodopa and Ropinirole are used to treat Parkinson's and may worsen psychosis.

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