adjective
- relating to or denoting nerve tracts and motor systems in the brain that are outside the pyramidal tract, involved in the control of movement and muscle tone
- relating to side effects caused by certain medications (especially antipsychotics) that affect extrapyramidal motor control, resulting in involuntary movements or muscle rigidity
Usage: medical/anatomical term; commonly used in neurology and psychiatry
Usage: medical/pharmacological term
Examples
- The extrapyramidal system helps regulate posture and balance.
- Damage to extrapyramidal pathways can result in movement disorders like Parkinson's disease.
- Some antipsychotic medications can cause extrapyramidal side effects such as tremors.
- The neurologist examined the patient for signs of extrapyramidal dysfunction.
- Extrapyramidal symptoms may include akathisia and dystonia.
- The drug's extrapyramidal effects were managed with additional medication.