Tetrabenazine

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Molecule Description

Tetrabenazine is a prescription medicine used for the treatment of uncontrolled body movements (called “chorea”). It does not cure the disease entirely but reduces the uncontrollable involuntary movements of the body.

Uses

For the treatment of reducing involuntary body movements caused due to Huntington’s disease (an inherited condition in which nerve cells in the brain break down over time).

Contraindications

When should one not use Tetrabenazine

Do not take this medicine if:
You have an allergy to this medicine
You have depression
You have suicidal tendency
You have adrenal gland tumour called pheochromocytoma
You have pituitary gland cancer
You have breast cancer
You are taking medications such as Reserpine, MAO inhibitor

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Drowsiness
Uncontrollable movements of limbs or head
Depression
Difficulty in swallowing
Nausea or vomiting
Loose motions or constipation
Sweating
Blood pressure fluctuation
Trouble sleeping
Confusion
Anxiety

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

No data available about the effects of this medicine in unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

Breast Feeding

This medicine can pass into breast milk and cause an adverse effect in breastfed babies. Therefore avoid this medicine during breastfeeding. If it is necessary to continue the medication, breastfeeding should be stopped till the end of treatment with this medicine.

Driving

Tetrabenazine cause sleepiness, therefore avoid driving and work that requires concentration.

Alcohol

Alcohol increases sleepiness in the treatment of this medicine. It is better to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have liver disease or heart disease
You are experiencing some mental changes such as false sensation, confusion

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Tetrabenazine works by reducing the secretion of chemicals in the brain, which is involved with nerve and muscle functions that cause involuntary movement. The exact mechanism is not known.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Reserpine, MAO inhibitor, Levodopa
Medicines used in psychosis and depression such as Fluoxetine, Paroxetine
Medicines for the treatment of heart diseases such as Quinidine, Sotalol
Certain antibiotics such as Moxifloxacin

Interactions with food items

No interaction with food has been reported yet.

Dietary Restrictions

No data available.

Dosage

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose can be drowsiness, sweating, low blood pressure and lowering of body temperature. Seek emergency medical help immediately.

Missed a Dose

Take the missed dose as early as you remember. If the time for next dose is close, skip the missed dose & do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Give a detailed account of your medical and surgical history. The doctor should also know about other health supplements like herbal medications, nutritional supplements that you may take before starting this medication.

The dosage regimen of medicine should be followed regularly. Medication should not be extended beyond the prescribed duration.

If you have a fever, confusion, muscle rigidity or disorientation due to medicine, consult your doctor immediately as you may have a medical condition called Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome.

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