DEVELOPMENTS IN TARDIVE DYSKINESIA

Abstract

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is one the most common chronic side effects of antipsychotic drugs (ADs). In contrast with the acute side effects, TD may establish or persist even after Ads’ discontinuance. Despite current opinion, TD may occur not only with First Generation Antipsychotics (FGAs), but also with New Generation Antipsychotics (NGAs). Clozapine seems to be the only actual exception to that rule. A great variety of diseases that may mimic TD should be excluded via proper diagnostic approach. TD may be prevented by administrating ADs at minimum effective doses and minimum time duration. However, once manifested, many drugs have been put under trial (Clonazepam, Tetrabenazine and Gingko Biloba among others) with controversial results. Recently, Valbenazine has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration as the first drug to ever treat TD. In any case, TD still remains one of the most challenging issues in the management of ADs administration.