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Home > Drug Category > Huntington's Disease > Xenazine and Equivalent

Xenazine Information

Xenazine (Tetrabenazine) is used to treat chorea, the involuntary and jerky movements associated with Huntington's disease. It may also be used to manage uncontrollable movement associated with other disorders such as tardive dyskinesia, tics, and Tourette's syndrome. Huntington's disease is a genetic condition that gradually damages nerve cells in the brain, leading to problems with movement, behavior, and thinking. One of its most troubling symptoms is chorea, which is caused by excessive dopamine activity in the brain's motor pathways. Xenazine’s active ingredient, tetrabenazine, belongs to the class of drugs known as vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitors. The drug works by binding to and inhibiting VMAT2, a protein responsible for transporting and storing chemical messengers like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine within nerve cells. By depleting these neurotransmitters, Xenazine helps to reduce the overstimulation that causes the uncontrolled movements characteristic of chorea. While it does not necessarily address the underlying neurodegeneration or the cognitive and psychological symptoms of the disease, it does help manage the most physically disruptive symptom of Huntington's, offering some relief to patients.

Xenazine Side Effects

Some possible side effects of this medicine include difficulty sleeping, dizziness, drooling, drowsiness, fatigue, increased appetite, nausea, dizziness when standing or sitting from a lying position, stomach pain, vomiting, weakness, and weight gain. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Abnormal heartbeat;
• Agitation, anxiety, or confusion;
• Depression;
• Difficulty swallowing;
• Low blood pressure;
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome, such as high fever, muscle stiffness, profuse sweating;
• Parkinsonism with symptoms like tremor, muscle stiffness, and difficulty starting movement;
• Suicidal thoughts or ideation

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Xenazine Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to tetrabenazine, the inactive ingredients in Xenazine, or any other medicine. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Depression, especially with a history of suicidal ideations or attempts;
• Heart disease;
• Hyperprolactinemia (high blood prolactin levels);
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease;
• Low blood pressure, with severe dizziness upon change in posture;
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome;
• Parkinsonism;
• Pheochromocytoma (tumour of the adrenal gland);
• Pituitary or breast tumor

Avoid the intake of alcohol while taking this medication, as it can lead to life-threatening side effects. Do not drive or operate machinery until you have determined how this medication affects you, as it can cause reduced alertness. Consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Tetrabenazine may interact with other drugs or substances, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (like selegiline, phenelzine, and tranylcypromine), reserpine, and levodopa. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements, that you are taking before using Xenazine to prevent potential drug interactions.

Xenazine is available in the form of tablets for oral use as prescribed by your doctor or as stated in the medication pack. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose and frequency of use for you. This medicine is typically started at a very low dose and increased gradually each week to find the right balance between effectiveness and side effects. You can take the medication with or without food. Never suddenly stop taking the drug or change your dosage without talking to your doctor, as this can cause your symptoms to return or worsen. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Xenazine?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Xenazine.