Clinical Practice SWES Practice Exam

What is an untrue statement about Tardive dyskinesia?

1. Caused by long-term use of antipsychotics

2. Always reversible by stopping medication

3. Causes involuntary facial movements

4. Causes jerky limb movements

The correct answer is: Always reversible by stopping medication

The statement that tardive dyskinesia is always reversible by stopping medication is untrue. While discontinuing the medication may lead to some improvement or reduction of symptoms in certain patients, it does not guarantee complete reversal for everyone. Tardive dyskinesia can persist even after the offending antipsychotic has been discontinued. Factors influencing the reversibility of symptoms include the duration of antipsychotic use, the specific medication involved, and individual patient differences. On the other hand, Tardive dyskinesia is indeed caused by long-term use of antipsychotics, particularly typical or first-generation antipsychotics. It is characterized by involuntary movements, including facial movements such as grimacing, tongue movements, and lip smacking, alongside jerky movements in limbs, which can be distressing for patients. Understanding these aspects underscores the importance of monitoring and managing medication use in patients who are on long-term antipsychotic therapy.