tardive dyskinesia
Pronunciation: TAR-dive dis-ki-NEE-zhah
A neurological side effect of long-term antipsychotic medication use characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements.
Full Definition
Tardive dyskinesia is a potentially irreversible neurological condition that develops as a side effect of prolonged use of antipsychotic medications, particularly first-generation (typical) antipsychotics. It is characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of the face, lips, tongue, and sometimes limbs. The condition typically emerges after months or years of medication use and may persist even after discontinuation of the offending drug. Regular monitoring using assessment scales like the AIMS is standard practice to detect early signs.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as TD in clinical notes. Distinguish from other movement disorders caused by antipsychotics.
In Context
- "The patient developed tardive dyskinesia after three years of haloperidol treatment." — Medical chart documentation
- "Screening for tardive dyskinesia should be conducted every six months in patients on long-term antipsychotics." — Clinical guideline