Which assessment tool is commonly used to monitor EPS in patients on antipsychotics?

• A. Beck Depression Inventory.
• B. The Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS).
• C. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).
• D. Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale.

Answer: (B)

Extrapyramidal symptoms from antipsychotics are movement-related side effects that need careful, targeted tracking. The tool designed to capture these changes focuses on involuntary movements across the face, mouth, limbs, and trunk, providing a structured way to rate severity and monitor progression over time. Using it helps catch issues like tardive dyskinesia early and supports timely treatment adjustments, which is crucial for maintaining function and safety. In contrast, the Beck Depression Inventory measures mood, the Mini-Mental State Examination screens cognitive function, and the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale assesses anxiety. None of those are built to monitor EPS, so they aren’t suitable for this purpose.