What is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications?

Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder that is a recognized side effect of long-term use of antipsychotic medications, particularly the older, first-generation antipsychotics. This condition is characterized by involuntary, repetitive body movements, which can be quite distressing for those affected. The exact mechanism behind tardive dyskinesia is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the way antipsychotic drugs affect dopamine receptors in the brain, especially with prolonged use.

In contrast, memory loss, excessive sleepiness, and anxiety may occur with various medications or conditions, but they are not specifically associated with antipsychotic drugs in the same way that tardive dyskinesia is. Memory loss is more commonly linked to other types of medications or neurological conditions, while excessive sleepiness can result from numerous factors, including the depressant effects of some psychotropic drugs. Anxiety can be a symptom of mental health disorders but is not a direct side effect of antipsychotics. Therefore, the most relevant and specific side effect in the context of antipsychotic treatment is indeed tardive dyskinesia.