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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment For Tardive Dyskinesia

I have tardive dyskinesia which everyone, especially my kids notice. They keep telling me to stop it but of course I cannot. I have been on anti-psychotics since the mid-90s when I was hospitalized with a major depressive episode. I was treated with several drugs and over 20 ECT treatments. After release it took me several moths to show any interests and I continued to take several drugs. I have since then requested my psychiatrist to take me off all drugs which are anti-psychotics but the damage is done. I cannot continue to live like this. What can I take to quiet he symptoms down a lot?
Sat, 22 Apr 2023
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi,

Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder caused by the long-term use of certain medications, especially antipsychotics. Treatment for tardive dyskinesia involves managing the symptoms and minimizing their impact on daily life.

Here are some treatment options that may help:
* Discontinuing or changing medications: The first step is to work with your psychiatrist to discontinue or switch to a medication that does not cause tardive dyskinesia. However, this may not always be possible or desirable if the medication is effective in managing the underlying condition.
* Botulinum toxin injections: Botulinum toxin injections can help reduce the severity of involuntary movements by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This treatment is most effective for focal dystonias (involuntary muscle contractions in a specific area) and may not be effective for more widespread movements.
* Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines such as clonazepam can help manage the symptoms of tardive dyskinesia. They work by enhancing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has a calming effect on the brain.
* Vitamin E: Vitamin E has been studied as a possible treatment for tardive dyskinesia, as it has antioxidant properties that may help protect brain cells from damage. However, its effectiveness is still unclear.
* Other medications: Other medications that may help manage the symptoms of tardive dyskinesia include amantadine, tetrabenazine, and clozapine. However, these medications also carry the risk of side effects and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

It is important to work with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific case of tardive dyskinesia. They may also recommend other strategies to help manage the condition, such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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Suggest Treatment For Tardive Dyskinesia

Hi, Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder caused by the long-term use of certain medications, especially antipsychotics. Treatment for tardive dyskinesia involves managing the symptoms and minimizing their impact on daily life. Here are some treatment options that may help: * Discontinuing or changing medications: The first step is to work with your psychiatrist to discontinue or switch to a medication that does not cause tardive dyskinesia. However, this may not always be possible or desirable if the medication is effective in managing the underlying condition. * Botulinum toxin injections: Botulinum toxin injections can help reduce the severity of involuntary movements by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This treatment is most effective for focal dystonias (involuntary muscle contractions in a specific area) and may not be effective for more widespread movements. * Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines such as clonazepam can help manage the symptoms of tardive dyskinesia. They work by enhancing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has a calming effect on the brain. * Vitamin E: Vitamin E has been studied as a possible treatment for tardive dyskinesia, as it has antioxidant properties that may help protect brain cells from damage. However, its effectiveness is still unclear. * Other medications: Other medications that may help manage the symptoms of tardive dyskinesia include amantadine, tetrabenazine, and clozapine. However, these medications also carry the risk of side effects and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is important to work with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific case of tardive dyskinesia. They may also recommend other strategies to help manage the condition, such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and lifestyle changes. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician