Dyskinesias and Sydenham's chorea are movement disorders treated with which antipsychotics?

• A. Haloperidol
• B. Risperidone
• C. Haloperidol and Risperidone
• D. Chlorpromazine

Answer: (C)

Dopamine blockade in the motor circuits of the basal ganglia reduces involuntary movements, which is why antipsychotics that antagonize dopamine receptors can help with these disorders. Haloperidol is a potent D2 antagonist that has long been used to suppress choreiform movements, including those seen in Sydenham’s chorea. Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic with strong D2 blockade and additional serotonergic effects, offering effective control of abnormal movements with a somewhat more tolerable side‑effect profile for many patients. Chlorpromazine can also reduce chorea, but it tends to cause more sedation and other side effects, making it a less favored option compared to haloperidol or risperidone. Thus, both haloperidol and risperidone are appropriate antipsychotic options for these movement disorders.