What is the recommended treatment for Tourette's syndrome?

Study for the USMLE Step 2 CK Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Tourette's syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by the presence of multiple motor and vocal tics. When considering treatment options, typical antipsychotics, such as haloperidol or pimozide, are often the first-line pharmacological therapies. These medications have been shown to help reduce the frequency and severity of tics, making them effective choices for managing Tourette's syndrome.

Haloperidol, in particular, has a longstanding history of use in treating tics, and pimozide, another typical antipsychotic, is also commonly prescribed specifically for Tourette's. Both of these medications act by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, which can help alleviate the symptoms of Tourette's syndrome.

While behavioral therapy can provide additional support, particularly for managing the social and emotional aspects of living with Tourette's, it is not sufficient as a standalone treatment for the tics. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may be used in cases where there is associated comorbidity, like OCD or anxiety, but they are not primary treatments for the tics themselves. Stimulants, typically used to treat ADHD, can sometimes worsen tic symptoms, making them an inappropriate choice for individuals with Tourette's syndrome.

Thus,

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy