Word parts
What it means
It develops after long-term use of drugs that block dopamine, mainly antipsychotics (more often the older ones) and metoclopramide. Movements include lip smacking, chewing, tongue thrusting, grimacing and twisting of the arms, legs or trunk. It may last even after the drug is stopped, so catching it early matters. "Tardive" means late.
For the nurse
Check clients on these drugs for abnormal movements regularly, often with the AIMS (Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale), and report new movements.
At a glance
| Spanish | discinesia tardía |
|---|---|
| Also written | tardive dyskinesias, TD |
Related terms
dys-
A word beginning that means difficult, painful or not working normally.