National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

Which is commonly seen in patients with tardive dystonia after the use of neuroleptic medications?

1. Involuntary muscle contractions

2. Persistent lethargy

3. Mood swings

4. Excessive laughing

The correct answer is: Involuntary muscle contractions

Involuntary muscle contractions are a hallmark characteristic of tardive dystonia, particularly following the long-term use of neuroleptic medications. Tardive dystonia is a movement disorder that may develop as a side effect of antipsychotic drugs, especially those that block dopamine receptors. Patients may experience sustained muscle contractions, abnormal postures, and twisting movements, commonly affecting the neck, face, and limbs. This comes as a direct result of the alterations in neurotransmitter functioning caused by the medication, leading to disruptions in the control of muscle movement. The other options do not align with the specific symptoms associated with tardive dystonia. Persistent lethargy may be observed in other conditions or as a side effect of medications but is not a defining characteristic of tardive dystonia. Mood swings can occur in various mental health conditions but are not specifically linked to the motor symptoms of tardive dystonia. Excessive laughing, often related to other medical conditions such as pseudobulbar affect, is also unrelated to the involuntary movements that define tardive dystonia. Thus, recognizing involuntary muscle contractions is crucial for understanding and identifying tardive dystonia in patients who have undergone treatment with neuroleptic medications.