Treatment
Most people with TS do not need medical treatment.
If you have a tic that disrupts daily activities, there are treatments. The most common is medication.
No single treatment is helpful for all people with TS. Treatment may not completely eliminate symptoms.
Medications
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Several medications can help control tics, including:
- Clonidine (Catapres), pimozide (Orap), risperidone (Risperdal), and haloperidol (Haldol)
- Newer antipsychotic medications, such as aripiperazole (Abilify) and ziprasidone (Geodon)
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Obsessive-compulsive symptoms may be treated with:
- Fluoxetine (Prozac), clomipramine (Anafranil), sertraline (Zoloft), or other similar medications
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Symptoms of ADHD may be treated with:
- Stimulants, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) , pemoline (Cylert), dextroamphetamine sulfate (Dexedrine) , or tricyclic antidepressants
Other Treatments
- Behavior therapy can help people with TS learn to substitute their tics with other movements or sounds that are more acceptable.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy can help reduce obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
- Relaxation, biofeedback, and exercise can reduce the stress that often makes symptoms worse.
- Psychotherapy can help people with TS and their families cope with the disorder. In tic disorders associated with PANDAS, intravenous immunoglobulin therapy has been used with some success in a small number of patients, but is still considered experimental.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2025 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.