Risk Factors of Tardive Dyskinesia

In this episode, the panel examines which patients are at greatest risk for developing tardive dyskinesia (TD) and how clinicians, particularly pharmacists, can integrate this knowledge into monitoring and patient education. TD risk extends to anyone taking dopamine-receptor–blocking agents, including those prescribed antipsychotics for depression, bipolar disorder, or nonpsychiatric conditions such as nausea or gastrointestinal disorders. Higher-risk groups include older adults, females, individuals with mood disorders, patients cycling on and off antipsychotics, and those with intellectual disabilities or traumatic brain injury, who may have reduced neurological reserve.

The panel stresses the need for consistent education at initiation of therapy, noting that patients cannot recognize what they do not know. Pharmacists play a key role in counseling, though timing may vary depending on patient stability. Early education empowers patients to report emerging symptoms sooner, promoting earlier detection and reducing the likelihood of severe, persistent TD.