Tardive Dyskinesia

Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder of involuntary, choreoathetoid movements (classically oro-bucco-lingual stereotypy, limb/trunk movements) that develops after long-term treatment with dopamine-receptor blocking antipsychotic (neuroleptic) drugs. It may persist after drug discontinuation. Treatment: reduce/discontinue the offending antipsychotic when feasible, switch to a lower-risk agent, and use VMAT2 inhibitors (valbenazine/deutetrabenazine); early recognition improves reversibility.

Common Symptoms

Involuntary oro-bucco-lingual movements; lip-smacking; tongue protrusion; choreoathetosis of limbs/trunk; long-term antipsychotic use

Causes and Pathogenesis

Long-term D2-receptor blockade causes dopamine-receptor supersensitivity in the basal ganglia, producing involuntary dyskinetic movements.

Treatment

Reduce/stop offending antipsychotic; switch agent; VMAT2 inhibitors (valbenazine); supportive care

Preventive Measures

Minimize antipsychotic exposure; monitor for dyskinesia; lowest effective dose.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.