Uncontrollable Movements After Long-Term Medication Use? Understanding Tardive Dyskinesia and How Valbenazine May Help
Introduction mental health conditions and certain gastrointestinal or nausea-related conditions. However, in some cases, long-term use of certain medicines can lead to involuntary movements that are difficult to control. This condition is known as tardive dyskinesia (TD). 1,3 TD can affect daily functioning, communication, social interactions and quality of life. Fortunately, treatment options are available. Valbenazine is a VMAT2 inhibitor approved for the treatment of tardive dyskinesia and has been shown to reduce TD movements. 1,3 This article explains what tardive dyskinesia is, why it happens, and how valbenazine may help. Why Can Long-Term Medicines Cause Uncontrolled Movements? Certain medications, particularly those that affect dopamine signaling in the brain, may increase the risk of developing tardive dyskinesia when used for extended periods. 4,5,7 These medications commonly include 4,5,7 : Antipsychotic medicines Some medicati...