Childhood ADHD and Tardive Dyskinesia

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is one of the most widely studied and diagnosed conditions of today. ADHD is commonly diagnosed in hyperactive children (and more recently, adults) who have problems focusing, sitting still, or staying calm during social situations. These children often have trouble in school and have difficulties forming social relationships with their peers. Medical experts often prescribe prescription drugs in order to help these children settle down and focus. However, increasing criticism in recent years has focused on the high percentage of young children taking prescription medications for the disorder when other types of treatment, such as therapy, might have similar results.

While medications for ADHD are often beneficial for helping people deal with their condition, often a short-term medication plan combined with therapy, or therapy alone, can help those who suffer from this disorder. Some health experts warn that, since children are still developing mentally and physically, there are health risks that can arise with many types of medication. While medications for ADD or ADHD may provide immediate relief from the condition, there exist some long-term health risks that parents should take into consideration.

Neuroleptic Medications

A neuroleptic medicine is an anti-psychotic drug prescribed to patients who suffer from psychotic disorders. For severe cases of ADHD, especially when combined with other disorders, doctors may prescribe a variety of medications over time, including neuroleptic medications. These medications are known to cause serious side effects in some patients. Children who have been prescribed these medications are at risk for developing serious neurological complications that may affect them for the rest of their lives. Parents should carefully weigh all options and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these drugs with their child's psychiatrist before agreeing on treatment.

One serious disorder that can develop as a side effect from neuroleptic medicines is called tardive dyskinesia. Tardive dyskinesia results in involuntary, repetitive movements, including:

• Face grimacing


• Sticking out the tongue


• Rapid blinking of the eyes


• Smacking, puckering, or pursing lips.


• Repetitive chewing


• Jaw swinging


• Rapid movements in the arms, legs, and fingers

Symptoms may be subtle or resemble those associated with ADHD. For this reason, a person may not even realize that they are experiencing complications due to their medication.

Symptoms of tardive dyskinesia may cease if a patient stops taking the medication. However, the condition is often permanent, and even stopping drug treatment may not cure the condition. The best way to prevent tardive dyskinesia from occurring is to only use neuroleptics at the lowest effective dose level for the shortest possible amount of time. Anyone considering treatment with neuroleptics should think hard about whether the benefits from the medications will outweigh the risk of devastating side effects.

To learn more about tardive dyskinesia and other neurological disorders caused by prescription medications, visit the website of the Reglan child injury lawyers of Williams Kherkher.