What Is Catalepsy?

What Is Catalepsy?

Catalepsy (not to be confused with cataplexy, which is an entirely different medical issue) is a condition characterized by body rigidity where limbs remain immovable in whichever position they are placed. The person experiencing catalepsy appears to have a limited or no response to external stimuli.² Catalepsy is not its own illness, but it can be a result of epilepsy or a side effect from drug withdrawal. It may also coincide when schizophrenia is being treated with antipsychotic medications.³

Symptoms of Catalepsy

The temporary loss of voluntary motion is the defining feature of catalepsy. The person’s body will appear rigid and inflexible, and their presentation will look markedly different from typical functioning. People experiencing catalepsy demonstrate waxy flexibility, which refers to the phenomenon of limbs staying in whatever position they are moved.

Some symptoms of catalepsy include:

• Rigid body postures
• Decreased muscle control/functionality
• Increased pain threshold
• Slowed breathing
• Diminished or slowed body functions

What Causes Catalepsy?

Catalepsy can be affected by several factors and is present in both mood and psychotic disorders. Researchers believe that catalepsy occurs when specific dopamine receptors are blocked, and the blockage may cause motor behavior inhibition.⁴ Additionally, catalepsy appears to be a side effect of taking antipsychotic drugs for psychotic disorders, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Catalepsy may be caused by:

• Schizophrenia: Catalepsy may be a part of catatonia, which is a psychomotor syndrome that may be associated with schizophrenia.⁵
• Epilepsy: Research shows there is an association between epilepsy and catalepsy. Stimulation studies have shown that epileptic rats can be stimulated to experience cataleptic reactions.⁶
• Parkinson’s disease: Muscle rigidity and resting tremors are features of Parkinson’s Disease. With that, rat studies have demonstrated cataleptic effects in stimulated rat models of Parkinson’s Disease.⁷

Other causes of catalepsy may include:

• Antipsychotic medications: Some research shows that antipsychotic medications, including savoxepine, haloperidol, olanzapine, raclopride, and risperidone may increase the likelihood of experiencing catalepsy.⁸
• Withdrawal: Withdrawal symptoms may cause catatonic episodes where catalepsy can occur. This has been researched specifically in cocaine, but it may also happen when using cannabis, alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines.⁹
• Extreme emotional turmoil: Although it is rare and not well-documented, it is possible that dire stress may influence catalepsy.

How Is Catalepsy Diagnosed?

Catalepsy isn’t a specific condition, so it isn’t diagnosed as a standalone illness. Instead, a doctor or psychiatrist will examine catalepsy in conjunction with other symptoms. This can help healthcare providers establish an accurate mental health or medical diagnosis. They will also examine other disorders to identify what may be causing the catalepsy.

A doctor may use one or more of these methods to determine if you are experiencing catalepsy:

• Psychological evaluation: A psychiatrist may evaluate one’s mental health history and current mental health symptoms to properly assess for various psychiatric conditions. Evaluations may include clinical interviews and comprehensive psychological testing.
• Physical evaluation: A physical evaluation may include blood testing, physical exams, and neurological testing to determine if any physical issues are causing catalepsy.

Catalepsy Treatment

It’s important to note that there are no specific treatments aimed at treating catalepsy on its own. Instead, most multifaceted treatment focuses on treating the disorders causing or exacerbating cataleptic states. Depending on the nature and severity of these conditions, healthcare professionals will suggest various treatment recommendations to address the catalepsy symptoms.

Medications

Antipsychotic medications, which are commonly prescribed for schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, may relieve cataleptic symptoms in people experiencing psychotic disorders. However, it’s also important to note that some research shows that antipsychotic medication may correlate with catalepsy (although it is unclear if such medication causes this symptom). Regardless, it’s important to discuss this side effect and concern with your healthcare provider.

Muscle relaxants may also help reduce rigid body posturing caused by catalepsy. In addition, some research has shown that adenosine antagonists can reverse the cataleptic side effects of haloperidol for people with Parkison’s disease. It may also enhance control over one’s body movements.¹⁰

Psychotherapy Options

Psychotherapy may be a beneficial addition to one’s treatment plan. If the catalepsy is due to a psychotic disorder, it’s important to choose a therapist specializing in you or your loved one’s specific condition. An online directory can help you find a provider that best fits your needs. Therapy may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and ECT may also be recommended for managing treatment-resistant mental health issues.

In My Experience

In my experience, neurological issues such as catalepsy can be confusing and even frightening for individuals and their loved ones. They are largely misunderstood, making it easy for others to stigmatize what’s happening. In some cases, catalepsy can be improved on its own (especially when it’s a feature of drug withdrawal). But, in other cases, people may benefit from seeking psychiatric support. If you are struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.