The first step in managing tardive dyskinesia (TD) is talking with your doctor
Which types of doctors can help you manage your TD?
Your primary care physician (PCP) might be the doctor you're used to seeing. However, your PCP may refer you to a specialist in psychiatry or neurology to help with your specific needs.
Because there are different kinds of movement disorders, your doctor will ask you to perform a variety of movements or actions to figure out what condition might be affecting you. This is an important step to finding the right treatment plan.
While not approved for TD treatment, anticholinergic medicines, like benztropine, are approved to treat other movement disorders. Your doctor may prescribe you an anticholinergic medicine depending on your diagnosis.
How is TD treated?
Treatments for TD have evolved. The recommended way to treat TD is with a VMAT2 inhibitor, which is a prescription medication that can be taken once or twice per day, depending on your doctor's recommendation.
Will changing your current mental health medicine reduce TD symptoms?
Your doctor might consider stopping, adjusting, or switching your mental health medicine for a number of reasons. If they do, they may keep an eye on a few things, like:
- If your symptoms have improved
- If your symptoms improve for a short period of time and then return
- Your mental health and how you're feeling overall
What are other ways TD could be treated?*
Other treatments could include:
- Clonazepam
- Amantadine
- Ginko biloba
Talk to your doctor about the treatment options available for you and the pros and cons of each.
*Not all treatments included
TD is a treatable condition—talk to your doctor.
Learn About A Treatment OptionSome things to talk about include
The location of your movements
When your movements started and how frequently they occur
If others have noticed your movements
The impact of these movements on your daily routine
How these movements affect your thoughts and feelings
How these movements affect your relationships with others
These talking points and/or short videos can help give your doctor a better picture of your uncontrollable movements, how they are impacting you, and if they are TD. Your healthcare team can help you create a treatment plan that is right for you.
Ready to talk to your doctor about TD or TD treatments?
Use this Doctor Discussion Guide, which includes tips about telemedicine, to help you prep for your next appointment in person, over the phone, or online.
For patients and care partners—sign up to receive helpful information and resources about TD and emotional well-being.
Get InformationDo you know someone who may have TD?
Here are some tips for TD support:
- Educate yourself on the cause and impact of TD
- Know what TD looks like and how to recognize it
- Keep an eye out for the signs and symptoms of TD
TD and stress
Did you know stress can worsen TD symptoms? That's why it's important to take care of yourself both mentally and physically, especially during these difficult times.
Be proactive about finding ways to improve your well-being, and remember to reach out to people who can provide support and guidance.
Help yourself
These activities may help relieve stress:
- Practicing relaxation
- Trying guided meditation
- Taking walks and exploring nature
- Setting aside time for just yourself
- Discovering hobbies such as gardening, sewing, or sketching
Get help from others
Your support system may include:
- Friends and family
- Peers with similar experiences
- Online TD forums and communities
- Counselors or support groups