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The Tardive Dyskinesia Study is being conducted to see whether an investigational study medication can help reduce involuntary movements in people who haven't had complete relief from their current or past TD treatment. Many people with tardive dyskinesia find that even with treatment, they still have noticeable movements in their face, mouth, hands, or body that can be embarrassing, uncomfortable, or get in the way of daily life.

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While treatments for TD exist, they don't always provide complete relief for everyone. Researchers want to see if this study medication can provide better results for people who are either still having movements while on their current TD treatment, or whose movements came back after stopping treatment.

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How the study works:

The study medication is a once-daily capsule taken at about the same time each day—ideally when you take your other medications. You'll start at a lower dose, and the study doctor may increase it based on how you're doing and how you're feeling.

 

This study is seeking adults who:

• Are 18 years of age or older

• Have schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, or major depression

• Have tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements) caused by psychiatric medications

• Are currently taking a TD medication but still have movements, OR stopped taking a TD medication at least 30 days ago and movements have returned

• Are aware of their movements and are at least mildly bothered by them

• Have been on stable psychiatric medications for at least 30 days

 

Study commitment:

The study involves about 7 months of participation with 8 visits to the study center in Independence, OH. Most visits are in person, with one phone or video check-in around week 6.

There is no cost to you for the study treatment or any study-related visits or tests. Compensation for your time may be available.

 

What Is Tardive Dyskinesia?

Tardive dyskinesia—often called TD—is a movement disorder that can develop as a side effect of taking antipsychotic medications over time. These medications are important for managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression, but in some people, they can cause involuntary movements that are difficult to control.

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TD movements often appear in the face, mouth, and tongue—like lip smacking, chewing motions, tongue movements, or grimacing. Some people also experience movements in their hands, fingers, arms, legs, or trunk. These movements can come and go or be constant, and they often happen without the person realizing it.

 

What It's Like to Live with Tardive Dyskinesia:

Living with TD can be frustrating and isolating. The movements may make it harder to eat, speak clearly, or feel comfortable in social situations. Some people feel self-conscious or embarrassed, even around family and friends. Others find that people stare or ask questions, which can make everyday activities feel more difficult.

Even when other mental health symptoms are well-managed, TD can affect confidence, relationships, and quality of life. Many people don't realize there are treatments available that can help.

How Is Tardive Dyskinesia Treated?

TD is caused by changes in the brain's dopamine system after long-term use of certain psychiatric medications. The good news is that treatments are now available that can help reduce these movements without requiring you to stop your important mental health medications.

The study medication works by helping to regulate dopamine activity in the parts of the brain that control movement. Many people see a noticeable reduction in their movements within a few weeks of starting treatment.