Which of the following conditions may result from the sudden cessation of antipsychotic medication?

The sudden cessation of antipsychotic medication is most likely to lead to a resurgence of psychotic symptoms. When patients abruptly stop taking antipsychotic medications, particularly those prescribed for conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, the absence of medication can result in a rebound effect where the symptoms that were previously being managed—such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking—come back more intensely.

Tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle movements, is typically a side effect of long-term antipsychotic use rather than a direct consequence of stopping medication suddenly. While emotional instability and anxiety may also manifest in some patients after discontinuation of their medication, these are usually not the primary concern. Furthermore, anxiety disorders are distinct conditions that do not directly result from the cessation of antipsychotic treatment.

In summary, the sudden stop of antipsychotics can lead to the return of psychosis, highlighting the importance of a gradual tapering process under a clinician's guidance to avoid exacerbating the underlying mental health condition.