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Orap
People who have Tourette syndrome that has not adequately responded to other treatment may receive Orap. This prescription medication is not used as a first option for treating this condition, and should only be given when severe tics interfere with the person's development or daily life. Side effects include sleepiness, headaches, and weakness. It comes as a tablet that is taken at least once daily.
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Orap® (pimozide) is a prescription medication approved to control motor and verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome. Orap is not considered a first-line treatment for Tourette syndrome. Instead, it is reserved for people who have not tolerated or responded to other treatment, and who have severe tics that interfere with their development or daily lives.
Orap is made by Teva Pharmaceuticals USA for Gate Pharmaceuticals.
Orap belongs to a class of medications known as antipsychotics. Like other antipsychotics, it blocks the action of a certain neurotransmitter (chemical) in the brain called dopamine. Although it is not entirely known how Orap works to suppress the tics associated with Tourette syndrome, it is thought to be related to the medication's ability to block dopamine.
Some general considerations to keep in mind during treatment with Orap include the following:
- This medication comes in the form of a tablet. It is usually taken by mouth one or more times a day.
- When taken once a day, Orap should be taken at bedtime.
- Orap can be taken with or without food. Try taking it with food if it seems to bother your stomach.
- You should avoid drinking grapefruit juice during treatment.
- Try to take this medication at the same time each day to keep an even level of it in your bloodstream.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Do not stop taking Orap even if you feel better, as doing so may cause your tics to return.
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD