Abnormal involuntary movements in patients on long-acting neuroleptics

Two hundred and thirty eight patients (144 males, 94 females) on long-acting neuroleptics; mainly fluphenazine decanoate, were surveyed and evaluated for abnormal involuntary movements and associated risk factors. A highly significant correlation was found between the three scales used in the evaluation. The prevalence rate for the transient, acute extrapyramidal syndrome was 37.38%, while that of tardive dyskinesia was 57%. Half of the tardive dyskinesia cases were of minimal severity. Most of these were located in orofacial region. Tardive dyskinesia was more frequent in younger patients but more severe in older age groups. Other associated risk factors were tremors and rigidity, and use of antiparkinsonien drugs. Tardive dyskinesia is a common abnormal involuntary movement in patients on long-acting neuroleptic. Early recognition of TD in this population could help in planning for its prevention by the use of minimum effective dose of medication.