Valbenazine?

Valbenazine is a prescription medication used to treat tardive dyskinesia (TD) in adults. It’s sold under the brand name Ingrezza and belongs to a class of drugs called VMAT2 inhibitors (vesicular monoamine transporter 2).

Key points:
- How it works: By inhibiting VMAT2, valbenazine reduces dopamine release in nerve terminals, which can lessen the involuntary movements seen in TD.
- Who it’s for: Adults with tardive dyskinesia. Not approved for children.
- How it’s taken: Oral, once daily. Typical dosing (under a clinician’s guidance) starts around 40 mg daily for a week, then may be increased to 80 mg daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on response and tolerability.
- Onset: Benefits may take several weeks to become noticeable.
- Common side effects: Sleepiness (somnolence), fatigue, nausea, dry mouth, diarrhea, headache. Some people may experience restlessness or akathisia.
- Serious considerations: Mood changes or depression can occur; monitor for worsening mood or suicidal thoughts and contact a clinician if these appear. Dizziness or balance problems can occur, so be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how it affects you.
- Interactions: Valbenazine is metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6. Strong inhibitors or inducers of these enzymes can raise or lower valbenazine levels, so you may need a dose adjustment or to avoid certain drugs. Tell your clinician about all supplements and medications you take.
- Other notes: Not a cure for TD. Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with your clinician if relevant; safety in pregnancy isn’t fully established. Take as directed, at roughly the same time each day.

If you had a specific question (e.g., dosing for a particular situation, comparing it to other TD meds like deutetrabenazine, side effects you’re worried about, or costs/insurance), tell me and I’ll tailor the info.