Screening for Tardive Dyskinesia with the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale

In this episode, the panel explains how structured assessments such as the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale are essential tools for identifying tardive dyskinesia and distinguishing it from other drug induced movement disorders. These assessments are not diagnostic but help clinicians document movement severity and track changes over time. The discussion highlights the importance of differentiating tardive dyskinesia from drug induced Parkinsonism because treatments for one condition can worsen the other. Under recognition often occurs when clinicians assume low dose antipsychotic augmentation for depression carries little risk or when mild movements are overlooked during brief visits. The panel emphasizes that tardive dyskinesia can emerge weeks, months, or years after treatment initiation and may be subtle. Pharmacists can improve screening by observing patients closely, recognizing risk beyond severe mental illness, and advocating for full AIMS assessments when abnormal movements are suspected.