Neuroleptic-induced tardive dyskinesia (TD) negatively impacts the qua
lity of life for persons with schizophrenia. While no satisfactory tre
atment is available for TD, a growing body of literature suggests the
efficacy of clozapine in reducing TD. This paper describes the efficac
y of clozapine in reducing TD in relation to the variables of treatmen
t duration and dosage. Eighteen schizophrenic patients were categorize
d as with and five as without probable TD, and a pattern of reversible
decrease in severity of TD on higher doses was found. The importance
of this information for behaviorally oriented psychiatrists, psycholog
ists, social workers, and nurses who work with the serious mentally il
l is emphasized. Because of their strong scientific training and their
roles as treatment team leaders, behavioral clinicians need to unders
tand these new findings and disseminate them to mental health treatmen
t teams. Combining this information with cognitive and behavioral inte
rventions should lead to improved outcomes, less serious side effects,
and improved quality of life for schizophrenic and schizoaffectively
disordered patients.