What medicines control tardive dyskinesia symptoms at 46?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 46 and have been on antipsychotics for schizophrenia for years. Lately, I have noticed my lips twitch, my tongue moves on its own, and sometimes my hands jerk. My psychiatrist said it could be tardive dyskinesia.

I am really scared it will get worse and become permanent. Are there any medications that actually reverse this? Should I stop my current medication? My AIMS score was six at the last visit. Please tell me if this can be controlled.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

So what you are describing is tardive dyskinesia, which is a movement disorder that can develop after long-term use of antipsychotic medications and is characterized by involuntary movements of the lips, tongue, face, or limbs.

It is understandable to feel concerned, but it is important not to stop your current medication on your own, as this could cause a relapse of schizophrenia symptoms. Instead, you should work closely with your psychiatrist to adjust your treatment safely.

There are now FDA (Food and Drug Administration)-approved medications specifically for tardive dyskinesia, such as Valbenazine and Deutetrabenazine, which have been shown to significantly reduce involuntary movements and are considered the mainstay treatments.

Sometimes adjusting the type or dose of the antipsychotic, especially switching to a newer generation agent with a lower risk of tardive dyskinesia, may also help.

An AIMS (abnormal involuntary movement scale) score of six indicates mild to moderate symptoms, and the earlier this condition is addressed, the better the chance of improvement and control.

While tardive dyskinesia can be persistent, many patients experience meaningful relief with the right treatment approach, so it is important to have an open discussion with your psychiatrist about starting one of these newer medications and tailoring your care plan to balance both schizophrenia management and movement control.

I hope that this answers your query.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.