About tetrabenazine
Vesicular monoamine transporter 2 inhibitor
Used for
- Treats involuntary movements in Huntington disease.
- Treats tardive dyskinesia in adults.
Usual adult dose
Huntington disease: start 12.5 mg daily; increase gradually, usually up to 100 mg daily. Tardive dyskinesia: start 12.5 mg daily; adjust gradually, usually up to 50 mg daily.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness or fatigue
- Depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts
- Parkinson-like symptoms or restlessness
- Nausea or insomnia
Important warnings
- Can worsen depression or increase suicidal thoughts; monitor mood closely.
- May cause marked sleepiness, low blood pressure, or movement problems.
- Avoid with liver disease, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or reserpine.
- Can prolong the heart rhythm; risk rises with certain medicines.
Pregnancy
Limited human information; use only if the expected benefit outweighs potential fetal risk.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment because effects on the infant are unknown.
Interactions
- Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors, such as fluoxetine or paroxetine, increase drug levels.
- Avoid monoamine oxidase inhibitors and reserpine.
- Alcohol and sedating medicines can worsen sleepiness.
- Other medicines that prolong QT may increase abnormal heart-rhythm risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.