Use of clozapine in tardive dystonia

Abstract

This open clinical trial (N = 7) measured the course of severe tardive dystonia in chronic psychiatric patients after discontinuation of neuroleptics and subsequent use of clozapine. The dystonia was regularly assessed using the Fahn-Marsden Rating Scale. The eventual concomitant tardive dyskinesia was assessed using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale. The mean follow up was 103 weeks. The results for the tardive dystonia: four patients recovered totally, two improved considerably and one did not recover. The results for the concomitant tardive dyskinesia: five of the seven patients had also dyskinesia, one patient had a total, two a partly remission, one had a very fluctuating course, and one patient worsened. Another patient developed dyskinesia. It is suggested to consider clozapine for patients with tardive dystonia who have to continue antipsychotic treatment.