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ICD Hub / Diseases of the nervous system (G00–G99) / 8A00.24 - Drug-induced parkinsonism
ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for 8A00.24 - Drug-induced parkinsonism
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
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Understanding Drug-Induced Parkinsonism (ICD-11 Code: 8A00.24)

Drug-induced parkinsonism, identified by the ICD-11 code 8A00.24, is a condition that mimics the symptoms of Parkinson's disease but is caused by exposure to certain medications. This form of secondary parkinsonism arises from the adverse effects of drugs, most commonly those that affect dopamine pathways in the brain. While it shares many clinical features with idiopathic Parkinson's disease, it is typically reversible upon withdrawal of the offending agent. This condition can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, particularly in older adults, due to the risk of falls and functional decline. Accurate identification and management are crucial for patient well-being.

Recognising the Signs of Drug-Induced Parkinsonism

The presentation of drug-induced parkinsonism often includes motor symptoms similar to idiopathic Parkinson's disease. Key signs may include: * **Bradykinesia:** Slowness of movement, making everyday tasks difficult. * **Rigidity:** Stiffness in the limbs and trunk, which can lead to reduced range of motion. * **Tremor:** Involuntary shaking, which may be present at rest or during movement. * **Postural instability:** Impaired balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls. While often symmetric, the symptoms can sometimes be asymmetric. Patients may also experience a masked face (hypomimia) and reduced arm swing. The onset is typically acute or subacute, developing over days to weeks after starting a new medication or increasing a dose.

What Causes Drug-Induced Parkinsonism?

The primary cause of drug-induced parkinsonism is the use of certain medications that interfere with dopamine neurotransmission in the brain. These include: * **Antipsychotic medications:** Particularly older, high-potency neuroleptics, but also some newer atypical antipsychotics. * **Antiemetics:** Drugs used to treat nausea and vomiting that block dopamine receptors. * **Other medications:** Including certain calcium channel blockers, anticonvulsants (like valproic acid), lithium, and some antidepressants. Factors that increase the risk of developing this condition include advanced age, female sex, and potentially pre-existing neurological vulnerability. The susceptibility varies greatly among individuals, meaning even low doses of certain drugs can trigger symptoms in some people.

Diagnosing Drug-Induced Parkinsonism

The diagnosis of drug-induced parkinsonism (ICD-11 code 8A00.24) relies heavily on a thorough medical history, focusing on recent medication changes or additions. Clinicians will conduct a physical examination to assess for the characteristic motor symptoms. Differentiating it from idiopathic Parkinson's disease is a key challenge. This often involves: * **Medication Review:** Identifying potential causative drugs. * **Symptom Onset:** Noting the timing of symptom development relative to medication initiation. * **Symmetry:** Observing whether symptoms are bilateral or asymmetric. * **Response to Withdrawal:** Assessing if symptoms improve after discontinuing the suspected medication. * **Imaging Studies:** In some cases, dopamine transporter (DaT) scans may be used to help distinguish it from idiopathic Parkinson's disease, though this is not always definitive.

Managing Drug-Induced Parkinsonism

The cornerstone of managing drug-induced parkinsonism is the discontinuation or dose reduction of the offending medication. In many instances, symptoms begin to resolve within weeks to months after the drug is stopped. Symptomatic treatments, such as anticholinergic medications or amantadine, may be used to alleviate the motor symptoms while the body recovers. It is important to balance the benefits of the causative medication (e.g., for psychosis or nausea) against the side effects. For billing and documentation purposes, the ICD-11 code 8A00.24 should be clearly recorded.

Other Terms for Drug-Induced Parkinsonism

Drug-induced parkinsonism is also known by several other terms, reflecting its cause and nature. These include: * Medicament-induced parkinsonism * Drug-induced secondary parkinsonism * Medication-induced parkinsonism * Dopamine blocking agents-induced Parkinsonism * Other drug-induced secondary parkinsonism Patient-friendly terms may refer to it as "medication-related movement problems" or "parkinsonism caused by drugs."

Frequently asked questions

What is the ICD-11 classification meaning of Drug-induced parkinsonism?
Drug-induced parkinsonism (8A00.24) is classified as parkinsonism due to prescription medications.
How are external causes coded for Drug-induced parkinsonism (8A00.24) in ICD-11?
For conditions designated as 'Drug-induced', an external cause code identifying the specific drug can be associated with the main condition code 8A00.24.
What drug categories can be associated with Drug-induced parkinsonism (8A00.24) through ICD-11 post-coordination?
ICD-11 post-coordination allows for association with drug categories such as analgesics, antipyretics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antipsychotics, antiepileptics, and other specified or unspecified drugs.
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