Pimozide (Orap) in the treatment of TS

• Pimozide (Orap) is a neuroleptic drug that provides better control of resistant tics in Tourette Syndrome than haloperidol but generally with reduced side-effects
• Pimozide blocks (antagonises) dopamine receptors (D1-D4) & alpha (1 & 2)-adrenergic & serotonin receptors. Avoid if possible in co-existing depression, anxiety or in those under 18years of age
• Pimozide (Orap) was the first drug approved for subsidy under the US 'Orphan drugs' bill to finance production for a rarer condition (Tourette Syndrome)
• Pimozide is a 'Typical' antipsychotic (neuroleptic) & may cause extrapyramidal side-effects: akathesia (restlessness) & tardive dyskinesia