Tardive dyskinesia
Definition
Tardive dyskinesia is a disorder that causes involuntary movements (especially of the lower face).
Causes
Tardive dyskinesia is serious side effect of long-term use of drugs called neuroleptics. The most commonly used neuroleptics are older anti-psychotic drugs, including haloperidol, trifluoperazine, or fluphenazine.
Symptoms
The abnormal movements include tongue thrusting, repetitive chewing, jaw swinging, or facial grimacing.
Outlook (Prognosis)
If diagnosed early, the condition may be reversed by stopping the drug that caused the symptoms. In some cases, even if the antipsychotic drugs are stopped, the involuntary movements may become significantly worse or permanent.
References
Nasrallah HA. Focus on lower risk of tardive dyskinesia with atypical antipsychotics.
Ann Clin Psychiatry. 2006 Jan-Mar;18(1):57-62.
Chen JJ, Lee KC. Nonparkinsonism movement disorders in the elderly. Consult Pharm. 2006 Jan;21(1):58-71.
Margolese HC, Chouinard G, Kolivakis TT, Beauclair L, Miller R. Tardive dyskinesia in the era of typical and atypical antipsychotics. Part 1: pathophysiology and mechanisms of induction. Can J Psychiatry. 2005 Aug;50(9):541-7. Review.
Review Date:
4/28/2006
Reviewed By:
Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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