Metoclopramide treatment of tardive dyskinesia

Abstract

Five patients with tardive dyskinesia (average age, 64 yr) were treated with a central dopamine blocking agent, metoclopramide HCl. The duration of symptoms ranged from 4-30 mo. A pretreatment disability score was graded (0-4) for buccolingual, extremity and truncal movements and for duration of tongue protrusion. A 59% improvement was achieved in total disability scores. Tongue protrusion demonstrated the most noticeable improvement. The average daily dosage ranged from 20-80 mg given in divided doses. Duration of follow-up ranged from 3-8 months. Apparently metoclopramide may be effective in the treatment of tardive dyskinesia.