Which Mental Health Meds Cause TD?

Last Updated on February 27, 2025 by Francis

Welcome to this discussion on the topic of mental health medications and their potential to cause tardive dyskinesia (TD). TD is a condition that involves uncontrollable movements of the face, mouth, and tongue, which can be very disruptive and disabling for those affected. In this discussion, we will explore which mental health medications are known to carry a risk of causing TD, as well as the factors that can increase this risk. Join us as we delve into this important topic and learn more about the potential side effects of these medications.

Understanding TD

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a movement disorder that can occur as a side effect of long-term use of certain medications. It is characterized by involuntary movements of the face, mouth, tongue, and limbs, which can be repetitive and rhythmic. These movements can be mild or severe, and they can be distressing and disruptive to daily life. TD is more common in older adults and in people who have been taking certain medications for a long time.

Medications That Can Cause TD

There are several medications that can cause TD, including:

One key takeaway from this text is that certain medications, including antipsychotic medications and metoclopramide, can cause a movement disorder called tardive dyskinesia (TD). TD is characterized by involuntary movements of the face, mouth, tongue, and limbs and can be distressing and disruptive to daily life. Risk factors for TD include age, duration of medication use, dosage, gender, and genetics. The best way to prevent TD is to avoid long-term use of the medications that can cause it. If a person must take a medication that can cause TD, their doctor may monitor them for signs of the condition and adjust their medication as needed.

Antipsychotic Medications

Antipsychotic medications are used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and some forms of depression. These medications work by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. However, long-term use of antipsychotics can lead to the development of TD. Some common antipsychotic medications that can cause TD include:

Haloperidol
Chlorpromazine
Fluphenazine
Perphenazine
Thioridazine

Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide is a medication that is used to treat nausea and vomiting. It works by increasing the movement of food through the digestive system. However, long-term use of metoclopramide can lead to the development of TD.

Other Medications

Other medications that can cause TD include:

Antidepressants such as fluoxetine and sertraline
Anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine and valproate
Lithium

Risk Factors for TD

Not everyone who takes medications that can cause TD will develop the condition. Some people may be more at risk than others. Risk factors for TD include:

Age: TD is more common in older adults.
Duration of medication use: The longer a person takes a medication that can cause TD, the higher their risk of developing the condition.
Dosage: Higher doses of medications that can cause TD can increase the risk of developing the condition.
Gender: Women may be more at risk of developing TD than men.
Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing TD.

One key takeaway from this text is that tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a movement disorder that can occur as a side effect of long-term use of certain medications, including antipsychotic medications, metoclopramide, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and lithium. Risk factors for TD include age, duration of medication use, dosage, gender, and genetics. While there is no cure for TD, treatments such as changing or discontinuing the medication causing TD, switching to a different medication, medications that help manage symptoms, physical therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy may help manage the condition. It is important to prevent TD by avoiding long-term use of medications that can cause the condition and monitoring for signs of TD if taking such medications.

Prevention and Treatment of TD

The best way to prevent TD is to avoid long-term use of medications that can cause the condition. If a person must take a medication that can cause TD, their doctor may monitor them for signs of the condition and adjust their medication as needed.

There is no cure for TD, but some treatments may help manage the symptoms. These may include:

Key Takeaway: Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a movement disorder that can develop as a side effect of long-term use of certain medications such as antipsychotics, metoclopramide, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and lithium. It is characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of the face, mouth, tongue, and limbs, and it can be distressing and disruptive to daily life. TD is more common in older adults and people who have been taking certain medications for a long time. Prevention and management of TD include avoiding long-term use of medications that can cause it, switching to a different medication, and using medications, physical therapy, or cognitive-behavioral therapy to manage the symptoms.

Symptoms of TD

TD is characterized by involuntary movements that can affect various parts of the body, including the face, mouth, tongue, and limbs. These movements can be repetitive and rhythmic, and they can occur at any time, including during periods of rest. Some common symptoms of TD include:

Grimacing

Tongue protrusion

Lip smacking or puckering

Rapid eye blinking

Jerky or writhing movements of the arms, legs, or torso

Restlessness or agitation

One key takeaway from this text is that Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a movement disorder that can occur as a side effect of certain medications, particularly antipsychotic medications and metoclopramide. Risk factors for TD include age, duration of medication use, dosage, gender, and genetics. While there is no cure for TD, there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms. It is important to work closely with a doctor to monitor for signs of TD and adjust medications as needed to prevent or manage the condition.