From the Research
When taking deutetrabenazine, patients should be aware of the potential social considerations, including impacts on daily activities and interactions due to side effects, social stigma from visible movement disorders, and the need for regular medical follow-ups, as highlighted in the most recent study 1.
Key Social Considerations
- Potential impacts on daily activities and interactions due to side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and fatigue
- Social stigma may arise from visible movement disorders that deutetrabenazine treats, such as chorea in Huntington's disease or tardive dyskinesia
- The medication may require dosage adjustments which could affect work schedules or social commitments
- Alcohol should be avoided as it can worsen side effects
- Depression and suicidal thoughts are potential serious side effects requiring social support systems
- Patients should inform close friends or family about taking this medication so they can help monitor for concerning changes in mood or behavior
- Regular medical follow-ups are necessary, which may require time off work or arranging transportation
- The high cost of deutetrabenazine might create financial stress, potentially affecting social activities or relationships, so insurance coverage and patient assistance programs should be explored
Important Safety Information
- Deutetrabenazine has a favorable safety profile and is well tolerated across indications, as shown in the integrated analysis of studies in TD and HD chorea 1
- Common adverse events include headache, somnolence, nausea, anxiety, fatigue, dry mouth, and diarrhea
- Serious adverse events are reported in a small proportion of patients, and the incidence of adverse events is higher during the titration period
Recommendations
- Patients should be closely monitored for adverse events and changes in mood or behavior, and should inform their healthcare provider about any concerns or questions they may have 1
- Healthcare providers should discuss the potential social considerations and safety information with patients and their families, and provide guidance on how to manage side effects and minimize risks
- Patients should be encouraged to report any adverse events or concerns to their healthcare provider, and to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any serious side effects.