Experts Discuss Managing Co-Occurring Drug-Induced Parkinsonism and Tardive Dyskinesia

In a discussion led by Rakesh Jain, MD, MPH, experts Rajeev Kumar, MD, and Jonathan Meyer, MD, explored the complexities of treating patients with both drug-induced parkinsonism and tardive dyskinesia (TD). They emphasized the importance of reducing antipsychotic dosage when possible and using amantadine to manage parkinsonism without worsening TD. If dosage reduction isn’t feasible, switching to a weaker D2 blocker like clozapine was suggested.

Managing VMAT2 Inhibitor Side Effects for Tardive Dyskinesia

At the 2021 Psych Congress Regionals, Dr. Rakesh Jain discussed the symptoms of tardive dyskinesia and provided updates on treatments, focusing on VMAT2 inhibitors. He addressed common side effects of the FDA-approved VMAT2 inhibitors, valbenazine and deutetrabenazine, and offered strategies for managing these side effects.

Expert Panel Sets Guidelines for Assessing Tardive Dyskinesia Impact

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a movement disorder causing involuntary movements that severely impact patients’ physical, cognitive, and psychosocial functioning. Despite its significant effects, routine clinical practice often lacks measures to assess TD’s functional impact.

Coping with Tardive Dyskinesia: Strategies for Managing Symptoms and Enhancing Well-Being

Living with tardive dyskinesia (TD) presents challenges, from the distressing symptoms to the impact on daily life. Though symptoms like involuntary movements can be disruptive and self-consciousness-inducing, they might not be as noticeable to others as feared. Developing coping techniques and seeking support from mental health professionals can help navigate life with TD. Early detection and treatment are crucial, with medications like valbenazine and deutetrabenazine offering hope. Keeping a symptom diary can aid in monitoring progress and communicating effectively with healthcare providers. Prioritizing sleep and stress management can also alleviate symptoms, emphasizing self-care strategies to improve overall well-being.

Exploring the Genetic Factors in Tardive Dyskinesia Development and Management

The development of tardive dyskinesia (TD) is influenced by various factors including the type of antipsychotic, dose, duration of treatment, and individual genetic susceptibility. Studies have highlighted the role of genetic variations influencing the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs, such as variations in dopamine, serotonin, and cannabinoid receptors, oxidative stress factors, and certain enzymes and transporters like CYP isoenzymes. Understanding these genetic factors is crucial as they contribute to the variability in drug metabolism and response, affecting both the efficacy and the adverse effects of antipsychotics.