Antipsychotic medication

I have been taking 10 mg stelazine for a very long time (18 years approx).  Recently I successfullly reduced it to 9 mg with my doctor's supervision and am planning to reduce it more (by 1 mg steps).  I have heard that there is a high risk of tardive dyskenesia on this drug the longer you take it.  I have had no signs of this side effect as yet, and I have never been on a dose higher than 10mg.  However, I wondered what my risk is of getting TD?  Also, since my marriage broke up two years ago, I've had some periods of depression and hearing voices.  These periods never last more than a month or two but they are difficult to get through.  I am 53.

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

yes, there is a risk, but given your history, it seems very slight.  There are other newer medications that can also help, so be sure your doctor is a psychiatrist who is aware of these newer medications if your periods of depression and hearing voices gives you any concerns.  In fact, I would suggest a consultation with a psychopharmacologist.