Akathisia and oculogyric crisis in hyperemesis gravidarum

Hyperemesis gravidarum complicates 0.5–2% of pregnancies. HG is associated with insomnia, significantly increased risks of anxiety and depression, and may be associated with feelings of guilt, social isolation and thoughts of suicidal ideation or termination of pregnancy. Anti-emetic therapy may be complicated by akathisia and dystonic reactions, which may affect the ongoing management of nausea and vomiting. A case of akathisia and oculogyric crisis following the addition of parenteral prochlorperazine to ondansetron and metoclopramide is presented. The treatment options for extrapyramidal side effects with anti-emetics in pregnancy and for ongoing treatment of nausea and vomiting are discussed.