Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a neurologic syndrome. It results from prolonged use of neuroleptic drugs (also called antipsychotic drugs). This class of drugs is used to treat psychiatric conditions, like schizophrenia . TD consists of:
It is unclear exactly why TD develops. Long-term use of neuroleptic drugs can cause changes in the chemistry in the brain that lead to the symptoms. Nerve cells may also become overly sensitive to certain substances, such as neurotransmitters in the brain. Not everyone who takes these drugs develops TD.
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for TD include:
TD causes repetitive movements. Movements usually occur in the face, mouth, limbs, or trunk. The movements are involuntary and serve no purpose. They may occur occasionally or all of the time. They may be barely noticeable or very pronounced. Symptoms may begin while on the drug or within weeks of stopping it. They can worsen with:
Symptoms my decrease with:
Symptoms may include:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. She will also do a physical exam. Other disorders can cause symptoms similar to those of TD. The doctor will rule out other disorders before making a diagnosis. There is no specific test for TD.
Tests may include:
To treat TD, your doctor may:
Symptoms may decrease over time even if you continue to take the neuroleptic drug. Younger people tend to do better.
Some medications may help decrease symptoms, such as:
If you need neuroleptic drugs to control a psychiatric disorder, consider these guidelines to help prevent TD:
RESOURCES:
National Alliance for the Mentally Ill
http://www.nami.org/
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Mental Health Association
http://www.ontario.cmha.ca/index.asp/
Mental Health Canada
http://www.mentalhealthcanada.com/
References:
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Last reviewed January 2009 by Rimas Lukas, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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