Austedo XR (extended release) (generic name: deutetrabenazine) is approved for the treatment of the involuntary, dance‑like movements and tardive dyskinesia(repetitive facial or limb movements) that are effects of Huntington’s chorea.
Deutetrabenazine is a prescription medication belonging to the VMAT2 inhibitor pharmacological class. As a deuterated form of tetrabenazine, deutetrabenazine incorporates deuterium atoms that slow metabolic breakdown, resulting in more stable blood levels and fewer peak‑related side effects. Its therapeutic effectiveness derives from VMAT2 inhibition, which reduces dopamine storage and release in the nerve terminals, thereby diminishing involuntary movements.
Dosage
Follow the dosage instructions on the label. If you have any doubts or questions, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
The usual starting dosage of Austedo XR is 6 mg twice daily (overall 12 mg per day). The prescribing doctor may increase the dosage at weekly intervals by 6 mg per day, depending on the results and tolerability of the medicine, up to a maximum recommended daily dosage of 48 mg.
Take Austedo with food. Do not chew, crush or break Austedo tablets before swallowing them, in order not to interfere with the extended release of the medicine in the body.
Storage
Store the tablets in the original bottle at 20–25 °C (68–77 °F). Keep the bottle tightly closed, with the water-absorbant pack inside until the final dose is taken.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
Read the information leaflet that comes with the medication.
Caution: There is an increased risk of depression and suicidal ideation. The FDA has issued a boxed warning for the use of Austedo in patients with Huntington’s. Patients and family should be warned to watch out of any signs of increased depression or thoughts of self harm.
If you develop a high fever, problems thinking, increased sweating, stiff muscles, or a very fast or uneven heartbeat for no reason, contact your doctor or go to an emergency room immediately, taking the medicine with you.
Most people who use Austedo do not experience any adverse side effects. Doctors prescribe this medication because they assess the benefits of such treatment outweigh any likely unwanted effects.
Some of the side effects that have been reported include sleepiness, fatigue, dry mouth, and diarrhea in patients with Huntington’s chorea, and nasopharyngitis and insomnia in patients with tardive dyskinesia.
Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Austedo is FDA-approved for:
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Chorea in Huntington’s disease: Characterized by abrupt, involuntary, dance-like movements of the limbs and trunk. Clinically significant chorea may impair speech, gait, posture, and daily activities.
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Tardive dyskinesia: Involves repetitive involuntary movements, especially of the tongue, face, and extremities, typically associated with long-term antipsychotic use. These movements are often suppressible but distressing.
Off-label use:
Deutetrabenazine is under investigation for Tourette syndrome, marked by motor and vocal tics.