Fred Rosner, MD, FACP

Tardive dyskinesia is a common problem associated with the long-term use of potent antipsychotic drugs. It has become less common with the increased use of the newer atypical antipsychotic medications. The condition is manifested by abnormal orofacial, extremity, and sometimes trunk movements. Decades after it was first identified, our understanding of the pathophysiology of tardive dyskinesia remains incomplete, and currently no definitive treatment is available. Encouraging advances in recent years point to promising new treatment options. This article discusses factors that may predispose to tardive dyskinesia as well as the latest developments in treatment.