Whereas, Many people with serious mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder, or gastrointestinal disorders, including gastroparesis, nausea, and vomiting, may be treated with medications that work as dopamine receptor blocking agents (DRBAs), including antipsychotics; and
Whereas, While ongoing treatment with these medications can be necessary, prolonged use can also lead to tardive dyskinesia (TD), an involuntary movement disorder that is characterized by uncontrollable, abnormal, and repetitive movements of the face, torso, and/or other body parts; and
Whereas, It is estimated that TD affects approximately 600,000 people in the U.S. Approximately 70% of people with TD have not been diagnosed, making it important to raise awareness about the symptoms and impact of TD because even mild symptoms of TD can have physical, social, and emotional consequences; and
Whereas, It is important that people taking DRBA medication to be monitored for TD. Regular screening for TD in these patients is recommended by the American Psychiatric Association (APA); and
Whereas, Clinical research has led to the availability of two treatments for adults with TD by the United States Food and Drug Administration; and
Whereas, The House of Representatives can raise awareness of TD in the public and medical community: now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare May 1-7, 2023, Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week in the state of Michigan. We encourage residents to become better informed about and aware of TD.
Co-sponsored by Reps.
Adopted in the House by voice vote