Dopamine is involved in producing movement.
If the receptors are blocked over a period of time, some individuals may develop uncontrolled involuntary movements. Onset of symptoms can range from a few months to several years after initiation of drug therapy. This is called an acute reaction. Acute reactions are more easily managed and usually completely resolve within a few days. Tardive dyskinesia was first described in the 1950s in patients treated with antipsychotic medications.