Abnormal movements associated with the prolonged use of antipsychotic
drugs (tardive dyskinesia) occur in at least 10%-20% of the patients at
risk; prevalence is higher among the elderly. The casue is unknown, but
increased sensitivity to dopamine in the basal ganglia may contribute to
the pathophysiology. Many treatments have been evaluated; none is
satisfactory. While the problem is serious, an alarmist view is
unwarranted, especially since many cases are detected early and improve
spontaneously. The best approach currently is to use antipsychotic drugs
thoughtfully for clear indications, the best supported of which,
scientifically, is chronic schizophrenia. There is a search for new agents
with much less adverse neurologic effect but with adequate antipsychotic
efficacy. This article summarizes an APA Task Force Report.
Abstract Teaser