Fluphenazine effective for Tourette syndrome
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).