Overview
A neurological syndrome that results in involuntary and repetitive body movements.
Symptoms
It causes loss of control of muscles especially of face, arms and legs which become stiff and jerky.
| What are people curious about? | |
|---|---|
| Tardive dyskinesia treatments | Medications for tardive dyskinesia |
| Orofacial dyskinesia | What drugs cause tardive dyskinesia |
Causes
Associated with long term use of antipsychotic drugs that block dopamine transmission in the brain thus interfering with smooth movement of muscles.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is difficult due to the delay in onset of symptoms. Thus patients on mental health medication require regular checkups.
Highlights
- Treatable by a medical professional
- Diagnosed by medical professional
- Requires lab test or imaging
- Can last several years or be lifelong
- Common for ages 50 and older
- More common in females
Treatment
Treatment involves managing both tardive dyskinesia and other health conditions. The doctor might reduce the dosage or change the medication to improve dopamine levels which control smooth muscle movements.
Medications
Vesicular Monoamine Transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitors: Newer class of antipsychotic drugs which lower the risk of developing tardive dyskinesia.
