Neurocrine Biosciences Introduces New Guidelines for Tardive Dyskinesia Management in Long-Term Care Facilities

New Guidelines for Managing Tardive Dyskinesia in Long-Term Care

Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. has made a significant stride in addressing tardive dyskinesia (TD) management by presenting the first expert consensus recommendations tailored specifically for long-term care settings. In March 2026, these recommendations were revealed at the prestigious Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medical Association (PALTmed) PALTC26 Annual Conference held in Anaheim, California.

The Need for Structured Guidelines

Tardive dyskinesia, a complex movement disorder, is prevalent among older adults, particularly those in long-term care facilities. Factors contributing to the increased risk include extended exposure to certain antipsychotic medications, advanced age, and often complicated medical histories. Unfortunately, many healthcare providers face challenges in identifying and managing TD effectively due to the complexities associated with this population—particularly those who may be non-ambulatory or have cognitive impairments.

Dr. Sanjay Keswani, Chief Medical Officer at Neurocrine Biosciences, emphasized that the recommendations aim to bridge existing gaps in the recognition and treatment of TD among older adults. By offering structured guidance, healthcare professionals can make more informed treatment decisions that can lead to enhanced patient outcomes.

Key Recommendations from the Expert Panel

The recommendations were developed through a multi-disciplinary Delphi panel consisting of experts who aimed to address the multifaceted nature of TD management in long-term care. The panel highlighted several critical aspects:

1. Screening and Diagnosis: Establishing regular screening protocols using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) was deemed essential. The panel advocates for quarterly assessments of residents exposed to dopamine receptor blocking agents, underlining the necessity of ongoing evaluation to gauge the impact of TD on residents’ quality of life.

2. Treatment Selection: The expert consensus recommends the use of vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitors, such as INGREZZA® (valbenazine), for managing TD. When selecting treatment, factors such as the ease of administration and the need for dose flexibility—especially for residents prone to dysphagia—are crucial.

3. Holistic Approach in Management: The recommendations urge caregivers to engage with patients, their families, and the broader care team to ascertain the comprehensive effects of TD, ensuring that treatment plans are personalized and responsive to each resident’s unique needs.

KINECT-PRO Study Analysis

Complementing these guidelines, Neurocrine Biosciences also shared findings from a post-hoc analysis of the KINECT-PRO™ study, specifically assessing the efficacy of INGREZZA among adults aged 65 years and older. This unique analysis revealed that participants experienced statistically significant improvements in various aspects of their lives, including symptom severity and overall quality of life when treated with INGREZZA compared to baseline reports.

The KINECT-PRO study stands out as the first clinical evaluation focusing on patient-reported improvements associated with TD treatments, reinforcing the emerging consensus that specific therapies tailored to this demographic can lead to marked enhancements in quality of life.

Conclusion

As the population of older adults in long-term care settings continues to grow, the implementation of these expert recommendations will be critical in providing suitable care for individuals affected by tardive dyskinesia. Neurocrine Biosciences' efforts signify a proactive approach toward improving clinical practices and ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the comprehensive care they deserve. With continued research and development, companies like Neurocrine are paving the way for establishing effective treatment pathways for conditions like TD that significantly impact patient quality of life.

In summary, the expert consensus not only provides a much-needed resource for healthcare providers but also reflects a commitment to advancing care for those living with TD in long-term care facilities.