Many patients with Tourette syndrome have very minor symptoms. In this case, they are not treated, since the medications have side effects that would be worse than the symptoms. Antipsychotic medications such as haloperidol (Haldol) and pimozide have historically been used to treat Tourette syndrome.

Although these medications may be effective in diminishing or eliminating tics, their use is restricted by significant side effects. These include movement disorders and cognitive effects. Risperidone is another antipsychotic drug that may be used for this disorder.

Clonidine has had beneficial effects on suppression of tics. Another drug commonly used is tetrabenazine, but this too has the risk of causing depression or a movement disorder. Many other treatments have been tried with little or no improvement.

Tourette Syndrome Association Inc.
42-40 Bell Boulevard
Bayside, NY 11361
Tel: (800) 237-0717

It is important to note that Tourette syndrome has a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from nearly unrecognized minor movements (such as grunts, sniffling or coughing), to persistent, involuntary movements and vocalizations.

The severity and nature of the symptoms may wax and wane, and generally reach maximum intensity during adolescence. They may diminish gradually in adulthood. Although 25% of patients may be symptom-free for a few years, only 8% of patients have complete and permanent remission.

One of the most disabling aspects of Tourette syndrome is the high rate of associated co-morbidities such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anger control problems, and poor social skills. These problems need to be identified and addressed accordingly.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if tics are severe, multiple, persistent, or interfering in daily life.