What is the treatment for tardive dyskinesia?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your question. This is likely a case of tardive dyskinesia, which arises with chronic treatment with antipsychotic medications. The condition often persists, but in approximately 30 % of patients, the condition improves with appropriate treatment and adjustments of antipsychotic therapy.

It is necessary to stop any anticholinergic medication you are taking and transition to an antipsychotic with a lower risk of causing tardive dyskinesia, such as Quetiapine or Clozapine. A VMAT-2 inhibitor, such as Deutetrabenazine, is also useful. Please be aware of possible side effects, including dry mouth, sedation, low mood, and Parkinsonism-like symptoms.

You can monitor your symptoms yourself using the AIMS scale, which is easily available online. Other treatments, including vitamin B6, do exist but currently have limited evidence to support them. For more focal movements, such as those affecting the eyes or neck, botulinum toxin injections may be effective and generally need to be repeated every two to three months. These can provide quick relief for movements that feel socially uncomfortable.

Stress can exacerbate symptoms, so strategies such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and avoiding caffeine, nicotine, or other substances may help. Physiotherapy may be supportive.

Neurology consultation is usually unnecessary, as most of these treatments can be managed by your psychiatrist. These medications generally have no significant effects on the menstrual cycle or hormones.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.