Current Understanding of the Neurobiology of Agitation

Introduction:  Managing agitation in the clinical setting is a challenge that many practitioners faceregularly. Our evolving understanding of the etiological factors involved in aggressive acts has betterinformed our interventions through pharmacologic and behavioral strategies. This paper reviews theliterature on the neurobiological underpinnings of aggressive behaviors, linking psychopathology withproposed mechanisms of action of psychiatric medications shown to be effective in mitigating agitation. Methods:  We performed a review of the extant literature using PubMed as a primary database.Investigation focused on neurobiology of agitation and its relation to the current evidence base forparticular interventions. Results:  There are well-established pathways that can lead to increased autonomic response andthe potential for violence. Psychopathology and substance-induced perceptual distortions may leadto magnification...
Source: Western Journal of Emergency Medicine - Category: Emergency Medicine Source Type: research