Treatment Strategies for Tardive Dyskinesia

Panelists discuss how management of tardive dyskinesia (TD) begins with evaluating whether to reduce or discontinue the offending medication while maintaining psychiatric stability. They emphasize that treatment should be individualized, balancing symptom relief with mental health needs. Nonpharmacologic interventions and close patient monitoring remain foundational in care.

Panelists discuss how the introduction of VMAT2 inhibitors—valbenazine and deutetrabenazine—has transformed TD treatment by directly addressing dopamine dysregulation. Both have demonstrated efficacy in reducing abnormal movements, with clinical trials such as KINECT 3 and ARM-TD supporting their use.

Panelists discuss how the choice between these therapies often depends on factors such as dosing frequency, patient preference, and tolerability. Pharmacists play a pivotal role in educating patients on adherence, managing adverse effects, and coordinating follow-up with prescribers to ensure optimal long-term outcomes.