Expanding our Understanding of Atypical Antipsychotics: AcuteUrinary Retention Secondary to Olanzapine

Antipsychotics are considered the most efficacious drugs in the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Whileclinicians monitor for the onset of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPSs), many do not consider the antimuscarinic andhistaminergic side effects that can occur with second generation antipsychotics. We present the case of a 62-year-old male whopresented with acute urinary retention that was found to be due to the recent initiation of olanzapine. Gradual cessation of themedication and follow-up with urology revealed resolution of his symptoms. With the increasing demand for psychiatric carebut limited psychiatric resources, more and more primary care physiciansfind themselves dealing with the complex challengesof mental illness and managing antipsychotic medications. As a result, coordinating care among multiple specialties andunderstanding the full profile of side effects that are associated with psychiatric medications can yield quicker diagnoses andimprove patient care