Question

Bella was diagnosed with schizophrenia at age 22. She was put on medication to help control the hallucinations and delusions she was experiencing. Now at age 34, she continues to take that medication because it works for her. However, she has started to develop embarrassing facial twitches that she cannot control. Bella likely has _____, which is a result of the _____ she has been taking over the years.

a) Tardive dyskinesia; antipsychotic medication.
b) Parkinson's disease; antidepressant medication.
c) Bipolar disorder; mood stabilizing medication.
d) Schizophrenia; cognitive therapy.

Answer 1

Bella likely has tardive dyskinesia, a side effect due to the prolonged use of antipsychotic medication prescribed for her schizophrenia. This condition is characterized by involuntary facial twitching and arises from long-term treatment with drugs that affect dopamine neurotransmission.

Step-by-step explanation:

Bella likely has tardive dyskinesia, which is a result of the antipsychotic medication she has been taking over the years. Tardive dyskinesia is a condition characterized by involuntary, repetitive body movements, often affecting the face with twitches or tics. It is considered a potential side effect of long-term use of antipsychotic drugs, which are used to treat conditions like schizophrenia.

Antipsychotic medications are necessary for managing the symptoms of schizophrenia, which can include hallucinations and delusions. Over time, however, these medications that block dopamine receptors to decrease dopamine neurotransmission in the brain, can lead to the development of tardive dyskinesia.