While maintenance treatment is helpful for many people, a drawback for some is the possibility of developing long-term side effects, particularly a condition called Tardive Dyskinesia . This condition is characterized by involuntary movements. These abnormal movements most often occur around the mouth, but are sometimes seen in other muscle areas such as the trunk, pelvis, or diaphragm. The disorder may range from mild to severe. For some people, it cannot be reversed, while others recover partially or completely.
Tardive dyskinesia is seen most often after long-term treatment with antipsychotic medications.
There is a higher incidence in women, with the risk rising with age. There is no way to determine whether someone will develop this condition, and if it develops, whether the patient will recover. At present, there is no effective treatment for tardive dyskinesia. The possible risks of long-term treatment with antipsychotic medications must be weighed against the benefits in each individual case by patient, family, and doctor. Antipsychotic medications can produce unwanted effects when taken in combination with other medications.