Tardive dyskinesia (TD) causes uncontrollable, stiff, jerky movements of the face or body (either fast or slow).  TD is a side effect of antipsychotic medications (neuroleptic drugs) used to treat mental health disorders such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.  

While not every patient will experience TD while on an antipsychotic drug, the effects can be permanent, so it is extremely important to let your doctor know right away if you have any movements of your body that you cannot control, but do not stop taking the medication without doctor approval.  The dose of the medication can be changed, another medication to counteract the symptoms can be added, or you can be switched to a different medication.  

Orofacial dyskinesia is the term used to describe the uncontrolled movements of the face:  

• Sticking out your tongue without trying

• Fast blinking of the eyes

• Chewing 

• Smacking or puckering the lips 

• Puffing out the cheeks

• Grunting

• Frowning

Dyskinesia of the limbs can affect the arms, legs, toes, or fingers.  

• Wiggling your fingers

• Tapping your feet

• Swaying from side to side

• Thrusting your pelvis

• Flapping your arms

Antipsychotic drugs affect a brain chemical called dopamine.  Dopamine is essential in making muscles move smoothly.  Disrupting the levels of dopamine cause the jerking and out-of-control movements.  

Mara Fiorentino, M.D., will inform you about the side effects of any antipsychotic drugs she prescribes and also discusses the pros and cons.