Fluphenazine effective for Tourette syndrome

By: Mary Kugler

Fluphenazine is an effective treatment for abnormal movements in Tourette syndrome, according to a study published in the April 13, 2004, issue of Neurology.

From 1349 patients diagnosed with Tourette syndrome at 1 center since 1981, 272 were randomly selected for chart review. Of these, 63 had been treated with fluphenazine for at least 1 year (mean 3.9 years). Marked or moderate improvement was seen in 84% of patients, at a mean daily dose of 3.9 mg/day. Adverse effects included drowsiness, weight gain, dystonic reaction, and akathisia. No patient developed tardive dyskinesia. The authors conclude, "Our study provides evidence that fluphenazine is a safe and effective drug in long-term treatment of tics." (This summary is courtesy of WeMove (Worldwide Education and Awareness for Movement Disorders).

Read Original Text