Understanding Tardive Dyskinesia: Causes, Risks, and Management

Key risk factors include prolonged use of neuroleptic medicines, unmanaged health conditions like diabetes, aging, menopause, brain injuries, substance abuse, and excessive alcohol intake. The most common causative drugs are antipsychotics such as perphenazine, fluphenazine, chlorpromazine, haloperidol, quetiapine, lurasidone, olanzapine, and risperidone. Digestive medications like metoclopramide and prochlorperazine may also contribute. Symptoms typically develop gradually, including involuntary movements, facial disfigurement, difficulty speaking or swallowing, rapid blinking, abnormal mouth motions, and breathing problems.

Historically considered untreatable, advancements now offer effective options to relieve symptoms. Treatments may involve reducing or modifying medication, but always under medical supervision. Certain drugs approved for treatment can help alleviate severe symptoms but require a doctor’s prescription. Regular screening with tools like the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) can detect early signs. Limiting medication duration and considering alternative therapies can also reduce risk. Patients should consult healthcare providers regularly to manage and prevent severe complications.