Tardive Dyskinesia in Focus: Practical Strategies for Early Recognition and Coordinated Care

In this episode, experts outline the significant clinical burden of tardive dyskinesia (TD) and the consequences of delayed diagnosis. TD arises primarily from long-term exposure to dopamine receptor–blocking agents, especially antipsychotics now used across multiple psychiatric and medical conditions. Panelists emphasize that although TD treatments exist, the disorder remains incurable, often progressive, and associated with substantial quality-of-life impairment. Even mild movements can interfere with functioning, harm self-esteem, and weaken the therapeutic relationship as patients may feel stigmatized or withdraw socially due to visible symptoms.

Delayed recognition allows symptoms to worsen, particularly when antipsychotics are continued without proper monitoring. Early detection offers the best chance to modify treatment, as some early or withdrawal-related dyskinesias may improve if addressed promptly. Because clinicians cannot reliably predict who will progress, routine assessment, patient education, and active listening are essential to reducing long-term functional impact