Austedo: Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Austedo (deutetrabenazine) is a medication used to treat chorea in individuals with Huntington's disease. It is known as a dopamine-depleting agent, and it works by decreasing the amount of dopamine released in the brain. Choreas are involuntary, jerky movements that affect individuals with Huntington's disease. Austedo is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries and is available as an oral tablet. Uses of Austedo Austedo is used to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease, a genetic disorder that affects the brain and body's nervous system. Chorea is not the only characteristic of Huntington's disease, and Austedo is not a cure for Huntington's disease. Austedo is only used to treat chorea. Dosage of Austedo The recommended starting dose of Austedo is 6mg once daily. The dose can be increased if necessary, up to a maximum of 48mg once daily, in increments of 6mg per week. The dose should be adjusted based on the patient's response and tolerability. Austedo is available as a 6mg, 9mg, 12mg, 15mg, 18mg, 24mg, and 36mg tablet. Demographic for Austedo Austedo is approved for use in adults with chorea associated with Huntington's disease. It is not approved for use in children or adolescents under the age of 18. Side Effects of Austedo Common side effects of Austedo include: - Drowsiness - Dry mouth - Diarrhea - Fatigue - Nausea - Insomnia - Depression - Anxiety Additional side effects that have been reported include: - Balance disorder - Restlessness - Parkisonism - Akathisia - Suicidal thoughts - Irregular heartbeat - Neuroleptic malignant syndrome If a patient experiences any of these side effects, they should contact their healthcare provider immediately. Interactions of Austedo Austedo has the potential to interact with other medications that affect the levels of dopamine in the brain, such as central nervous system depressants, antidepressants, and antipsychotics. It is essential to tell the healthcare provider about all medications and supplements being taken. Generic Options for Austedo Austedo is not currently available in a generic form. However, it is possible for a generic version of Austedo to become available in the future. Conclusion Austedo is used to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease in adults. The starting dose is 6mg once daily, and the maximum recommended dose is 48mg once daily. Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, insomnia, depression, and anxiety. Austedo has the potential to interact with other medications, and it is not currently available in a generic form. It is crucial to speak with a healthcare provider about all medical conditions, medications, and supplements being taken before starting treatment with Austedo.