Understanding Tardive Dyskinesia: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Treatment Options
While there is no cure for Tardive Dyskinesia, several treatment options can help manage its symptoms:
- Medication Adjustments: Reducing or discontinuing the use of the causative antipsychotic medication can sometimes alleviate symptoms. However, this must be done under medical supervision to avoid exacerbating underlying psychiatric conditions.
- Medications for TD: FDA-approved drugs such as valbenazine (Ingrezza) and deutetrabenazine (Austedo) have shown efficacy in reducing symptoms of TD2.
- Botulinum Toxin Injections: In some cases, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can be used to temporarily paralyze affected muscles, reducing involuntary movements.
- Supportive Therapies: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can help individuals improve their quality of life by teaching them strategies to cope with and manage symptoms.