What is Tardive Dyskinesia?
Tardive Dyskinesia is a neurological syndrome that is characterized by uncontrollable body movements. Patients who suffer from tardive dyskinesia have involuntary, repetitive movements, including rapid eye blinking, tongue protrusion, lip smacking and rapid movements of the arms, legs, fingers, and toes. These symptoms vary from mild to severe depending on the individual patient. Severe cases can have a significant impact on the patient's life. Patients suffering from tardive dyskinesia may be too embarrassed to leave their home due to the facial and body movements that are involved with the disorder.
Causes of Tardive Dyskinesia
The long-term use of neuroleptic or anti-psychotic medication is believed to be the most predominant cause of tardive dyskinesia. These neuroleptic drugs are typically prescribed to treat psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia. The class of drugs known as first generation antipsychotics, such as Haldol, is believed to pose a greater risk of tardive dyskinesia than the newer atypical or second-generation antipsychotics, such as Risperdal or Geodon. Additional medications that are prescribed to treat certain neurological and gastrointestinal disorders, such as Reglan, may also be linked to tardive dyskinesia.
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Treatment for Tardive Dyskinesia
There is no cure or customary treatment for tardive dyskinesia. Patients who suffer from tardive dyskinesia normally minimize the dosage of the drug or stop the use of the drug entirely to alleviate the symptoms. Switching to another medication may be necessary. Unfortunately, stopping the use of the medication or switching to another drug does not guarantee that the symptoms will improve. The symptoms of tardive dyskinesia may remain well after use of the drug has ended.
Questions and Consultations
If you or a family member suffers from tardive dyskinesia as a result of medication, you should contact a physician immediately. If you would like to discuss your rights, are interested in more information on tardive dyskinesia litigation, please fill out the free case evaluation form and a member of Seeger Weiss LLP's experienced staff will call you to discuss your potential rights concerning tardive dyskinesia. Attorney consultations incur no obligation on your part and all initial consultations are free of charge and do not create an attorney-client relationship.
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