Tetrabenazine

Drug Details

Tetrabenazine is a medication prescribed to manage chorea, which are involuntary muscle movements associated with Huntington's disease. While it does not cure the disease, it can significantly reduce these movements, allowing for greater participation in daily activities. Tetrabenazine functions by inhibiting a protein called vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) in the brain, leading to a decrease in the release of certain chemicals such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, which are linked to nerve and muscle function. It is important to note that tetrabenazine may interact with other medications, so it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.