How is TS treated?
A. The majority of people with TS are not significantly disabled by their tics or behavioral symptoms, and therefore do not require medication. However, there are medications available to help control the symptoms when they interfere with functioning. The drugs include haloperidol (Haldol), clonidine (Catapres), pimozide (Orap), fluphenazine (Prolixin, Permitil), and clonazepam (Klonopin). Stimulants such as Ritalin, Cylert, and Dexedrine that are prescribed for ADHD may increase tics. Their use is controversial. For obsessive compulsive traits that interfere significantly with daily functioning, fluoxetine (Prozac), clomipramine (Anafranil), sertraline (Zoloft), fluvoxamine (Luvox) and paroxetine (Paxil) are prescribed. Risperidone (Risperdal) is a newer medication that is also being prescribed. Dosages which achieve maximum control of symptoms vary for each patient and must be gauged carefully by a doctor. The medicine is administered in small doses with gradual increases to the poin