Prevention and management of tardive dyskinesia.

Abstract

Because no adequate therapy is available, the prevention of tardive dyskinesia is of great importance. The disorder may be prevented by periodic evaluations of the neurologic status of patients on long-term drug treatment, followed by reducing the drug dosage or discontinuing administration. Withdrawing neuroleptics, particularly in patients with pseudoparkinsonism, may uncover latent dyskinesia. For patients already exhibiting this disorder, the use of small doses of neuroleptics may be safe, provided changes in neurological symptoms are monitored carefully.