What is tardive dyskinesia?
Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a neurological movement disorder that causes involuntary, repetitive and irregular movements. These movements most often affect the face, mouth, tongue and sometimes the arms or legs.
The name “tardive dyskinesia” means delayed abnormal movement. TD often shows up after taking certain medications for a long time, especially antipsychotic drugs used for mental health. For many people, it develops after months or years. But in some cases, especially for people over 65, it can start within a few weeks.
Research shows that about 1 in 5 people taking antipsychotic medications may develop tardive dyskinesia. While there is currently no cure, there are treatment options available that can help reduce or manage the symptoms to improve daily life. If you or a loved one is taking these medications and notices unusual movements, it’s important to talk to your doctor right away.
Tardive dyskinesia symptoms
Tardive dyskinesia, or TD, causes involuntary movements that usually affect the lips, jaw, tongue and eyes. It can also happen in the upper body, arms, hands, legs and feet.
Symptoms can change from day to day. Movements may be fast and jerky or slow and twisting. They can happen repeatedly, all the time or randomly. Stress can also make symptoms worse.
Common signs include:
- Facial twitching
- Frequent blinking or squinting
- Tongue sticking out or moving side to side
- Lip puckering or smacking
- Jaw clenching
- Rocking or shifting the torso
- Twisting hands or dancing fingers
- Curling or gripping toes and feet
When to see a doctor
If you start noticing involuntary movements like twitching, lip smacking or your tongue moving without control, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor. Getting checked early can help you find ways to manage the symptoms and feel better.
You should see a doctor if these movements make daily tasks harder, cause discomfort or get worse over time. If you take medications that might cause tardive dyskinesia, regular visits with your primary care provider can help you catch symptoms early.
Tardive dyskinesia treatment
Tardive dyskinesia can’t be cured, but treatment can help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. Your doctor will work with you to create a care plan based on your symptoms, health history and how TD affects your daily activities.
Lowering or stopping the medication causing TD sometimes helps, but this isn’t always possible if it worsens your original condition. Stopping medications also sometimes causes the opposite effect, worsening the symptoms. In some cases, switching from first- to second-generation antipsychotics may reduce symptoms.
The most effective treatments are VMAT inhibitors like deutetrabenazine and valbenazine. These medications are safe and have been proven to reduce TD symptoms, especially when they interfere with daily life. Therapy and mental health support can also improve coping and well-being. Regular follow-ups with your doctor will help adjust your treatment as needed.
Find specialized care for tardive dyskinesia near you
At Baylor Scott & White, we offer specialized care and treatment for tardive dyskinesia at neurology centers located across North and Central Texas. Receive personalized care from a team dedicated to your health and well-being. Whether you're seeking diagnosis, treatment options or need ongoing management, we are here by your side.
