International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development

Tardive dyskinesia is a chronic and potentially disabling hyperkinetic movement disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of the face, tongue, trunk, and extremities, most commonly resulting from prolonged exposure to dopamine receptor–blocking agents, particularly antipsychotic medications. The pathophysiology of TD is multifactorial, with dysregulation of dopaminergic signaling in the nigrostriatal pathway playing a central role. Chronic blockade of dopamine D₂ receptors leads to receptor upregulation and hypersensitivity, producing abnormal motor activity. Additional mechanisms such as oxidative stress, gammaaminobutyric acid dysfunction, and genetic susceptibility have also been implicated in disease development and persistence. Epidemiological studies indicate that TD occurs in approximately 20–30% of patients receiving longterm first-generation antipsychotics, with higher risk observed in older adults, females, and individuals with underlying neurological or metabolic conditions. Diagnosis is primarily clinical and is commonly evaluated using standardized assessment tools such as the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale. Preventive strategies focus on minimizing exposure to dopamine receptor–blocking agents and ensuring regular monitoring of patients undergoing antipsychotic therapy. Recent therapeutic advances include vesicular monoamine transporter type 2 inhibitors, which have shown significant efficacy in reducing dyskinetic symptoms. This review discusses the clinical presentation, etiology, risk factors, the role of dopamine receptor modulation in the pathogenesis of TD, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and and highlights emerging therapeutic strategies that may improve clinical outcomes.

Shifa Bilal Tamboli, Simeen Phiroj Mulani, Arman Tajuddin Shiakh,"Role of Dopamine Receptor Modulation and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies in Tardive Dyskinesia" International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development, V9(2): Page(2307-2315) Mar-Apr 2026. ISSN: 2581-7175. www.ijsred.com. Published by Scientific and Academic Research Publishing.