Tardive dyskinesia is a condition characterized by jerky involuntary movements of the body. The lips, trunk, face, limbs, and tongue are mainly affected. The condition is often caused by the long-term use of neuroleptic drugs of patients with Parkinson’s disease. Although dyskinesia is a movement disorder, it is not the similar muscle spasms and reduced mobility symptomatic of Parkinson’s disease itself.
Rather, dyskinesia is directly related to the medications (Levodopa) taken to manage MS motor control symptoms, which cause involuntary and sudden jerking or fluid (or dance-like) writhings of the hands, arms, legs, trunk, and face. face, arms, legs or trunk. However, dyskinesia may be managed in the following ways:
1. Valbenazine Ingrezza
Valbenazine was approved recently and is considered a key treatment in dyskinesias. Although it is beneficial, it is still under study. The drug prevents the reuptake of neurotransmitters called monoamines. Interestingly, dopamine is also a monoamine. Valbenazine is thus helpful in managing undesirable movements. It decreases dopamine in the synaptic clefts of neurons, thus reducing the unintended effects of dopamine in the body
2. Ginkgo biloba
Management of movement disorders is not wholly based on conventional medicines. Some studies have shown the benefits of using herbal extracts ofGinkgo biloba. The plant has various beneficial effects on the brain. The use of the plant in the management of symptoms of dyskinesia is based on its antioxidant potential. It mobs up free radicals in the body that are thought to contribute to the development of the disease
3. Melatonin
Melatonin is a natural hormone. It has a central role in sleep, and therefore deficiencies may cause insomnia. Apart from its role in sleep, it is a powerful antioxidant. The antioxidant property makes it useful in dyskinesias. However, it is needed in higher quantities than those produced in the body for treatment. Additionally, the effects are manifest after chronic use
4. Deutetrabenazine Austedo
Deutetrabenazine is used in managing uncontrolled movements. The drug causes depletion of many neurotransmitters, including dopamine, hence its benefit. Therefore, continuous use of the drug causes a decrease in involuntary movements of muscles. It is wise to note that it is not a cure, although it relieves symptoms
5. Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is a good antioxidant. It scavenges free radicals that characterize many psychiatric conditions. Since antioxidants can aid in mobbing the radicals, they consequently improve the symptoms of movement disorders. However, high doses of pyridoxine are given during the management of dyskinesia
Many neuroleptics cause tardive dyskinesia. Although the condition does not affect all Parkinson’s patients, it is necessary to manage it where movement problems occur due to the reduction of dopamine-containing nerve cells (a condition referred to as Parkinsonism).
Managing dyskinesia should be overseen by a Parkinson’s specialist. A neurotransmitter called dopamine is thought to be responsible for dyskinesias. Therefore, treatments that regulate the hormone can aid in controlling the symptoms. The disorder does not occur in every patient that takes neuroleptics. However, if it occurs, it may be permanent, therefore necessitating management. Patients using drugs for the management of Parkinson’s are more likely to develop movement disorders. The medications act by altering levels of dopamine. Drugs that are commonly implicated include entacapone, selegiline, and carbidopa-levodopa. Luckily, such involuntary movements can be managed using various options.
