Which medication is effective in treating acute dystonia symptoms in clients taking antipsychotics?

Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication commonly used to treat acute dystonia, which can occur in individuals taking antipsychotic medications. Acute dystonia is characterized by sustained muscle contractions, abnormal postures, and involuntary movements, and these symptoms can manifest shortly after initiation or dosage increase of antipsychotics. Benztropine works by restoring the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically by antagonizing the effects of acetylcholine, which can help alleviate the symptoms of dystonia.

Other medications mentioned, such as diazepam, lithium, and fluoxetine, do not specifically target the underlying mechanisms of acute dystonia. Diazepam is primarily used for anxiety and muscle relaxation but is not effective for this condition. Lithium is a mood stabilizer used for conditions such as bipolar disorder, and fluoxetine is an antidepressant that works mainly on serotonin levels, thus not addressing the motor symptoms associated with dystonia. Therefore, benztropine is the most appropriate choice for treating acute dystonia in patients who have been prescribed antipsychotic medications.