Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a serious neurological condition that causes involuntary, repetitive movements of the face, tongue, and other body parts. It is often associated with long-term use of certain medications, particularly those used to treat mental health disorders. Despite its impact, many Americans are unaware that common prescription drugs can lead to this condition, making education and awareness essential.
What Is Tardive Dyskinesia?
Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder that develops after prolonged use of dopamine-blocking medications, particularly antipsychotic drugs. These medications are prescribed for conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and severe anxiety. TD symptoms include:
- Uncontrollable facial movements (lip smacking, grimacing, blinking)
- Involuntary tongue movements (protruding or rolling of the tongue)
- Jerky limb movements (twitching in arms, legs, or torso)
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
The symptoms of TD can be mild or severe and, in some cases, may become permanent if the condition is not recognized early and managed properly.
Which Medications Can Cause Tardive Dyskinesia?
Many Americans are unaware that widely prescribed medications can lead to tardive dyskinesia. The most common culprits include:
1. First-Generation (Typical) Antipsychotics
These older antipsychotic medications have a higher risk of causing TD, especially when taken for long periods. Examples include:
- Haloperidol (Haldol)
- Chlorpromazine (Thorazine)
- Fluphenazine (Prolixin)
2. Second-Generation (Atypical) Antipsychotics
These newer medications have a lower risk of TD but can still cause it in some patients. Examples include:
- Risperidone (Risperdal)
- Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
- Quetiapine (Seroquel)
- Aripiprazole (Abilify)
3. Other Medications That Can Cause TD
Many people don’t realize that TD is not limited to antipsychotic drugs. Other medications linked to TD include:
- Metoclopramide (Reglan) – A drug used for acid reflux and nausea.
- Antidepressants – Some studies suggest that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may contribute to TD.
- Mood stabilizers and seizure medications, such as valproate (Depakote).
Why Are Americans Unaware of the Risks?
Despite the serious nature of TD, many patients and even some healthcare providers are not fully informed about the risks of certain medications. Several factors contribute to this lack of awareness:
- Delayed onset – TD symptoms can appear months or years after starting medication, making it difficult to link them to drug use.
- Lack of warnings – Many patients are not explicitly told about TD risks when starting their prescriptions.
- Misdiagnosis – TD symptoms can be mistaken for other movement disorders, delaying proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Should You Do If You Are at Risk?
If you are taking a medication that may cause TD, consider these steps:
- Talk to your doctor – Ask about the risks and benefits of your medication and whether alternative options exist.
- Monitor for symptoms – Pay attention to uncontrollable movements and report them to your healthcare provider immediately.
- Consider medication adjustments – In some cases, lowering the dose or switching to a different drug may reduce the risk.
- Explore treatment options – There are FDA-approved medications to help manage TD symptoms, including valbenazine (Ingrezza) and deutetrabenazine (Austedo).
Stay Informed: Protecting Yourself from Tardive Dyskinesia Risks
Tardive dyskinesia is a serious but often overlooked side effect of commonly prescribed medications. Many Americans remain unaware that antipsychotics, antidepressants, and gastrointestinal drugs can lead to this movement disorder. If you or a loved one is taking these medications, staying informed and proactive is key to reducing the risk. Speak with your doctor, monitor for symptoms, and explore treatment options to protect your health.
