Why is this medication prescribed?

Ingrezza (valbenazine) is prescribed to treat a condition known as tardive dyskinesia (TD). TD is a movement disorder that can occur as a side effect of long-term use of certain medications, particularly antipsychotic medications that are used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric disorders.

Tardive dyskinesia is characterized by involuntary movements of the face, tongue, and other parts of the body, such as repetitive chewing motions, lip smacking, grimacing, and uncontrollable movements of the arms, legs, or torso. These movements can be distressing and interfere with daily functioning.

Ingrezza is a selective vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitor. It works by reducing the amount of dopamine released in certain areas of the brain, which helps to control the abnormal movements associated with tardive dyskinesia. By inhibiting VMAT2, Ingrezza helps to regulate the levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in movement control.

How should this medicine be used?

Ingrezza (valbenazine) should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. It is typically taken orally in the form of a capsule and is usually taken once a day. The recommended starting dose is 40 mg per day, which may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability.

Here are some important points to keep in mind regarding the use of Ingrezza:

• Follow the prescribed dosage: Take Ingrezza exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not take more or less than the prescribed dose unless advised to do so.
• Take with or without food: Ingrezza can be taken with or without food. It is important to be consistent in how you take it, either always with food or always without food.
• Swallow the capsules whole: Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules. Swallow them whole with a glass of water.
• Stick to the dosing schedule: Try to take Ingrezza at the same time each day to help establish a routine and ensure that you don’t miss any doses.
• Do not stop abruptly: If you need to discontinue Ingrezza, consult your healthcare provider. They will provide guidance on how to gradually reduce the dosage to avoid potential withdrawal effects.
• Regular follow-up visits: It is important to attend follow-up visits with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress, assess the effectiveness of the medication, and discuss any concerns or side effects you may be experiencing.

Always consult your healthcare professional if you have any specific questions or concerns about how to use Ingrezza properly. They can provide personalized instructions based on your individual circumstances.

Other uses for this medicine

Ingrezza (generic name valbenazine) is a medication primarily used for the treatment of tardive dyskinesia, a condition characterized by uncontrollable movements of the face and body. However, there are no other approved uses for Ingrezza. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or refer to updated medical resources to get the most current information regarding the approved uses of Ingrezza.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Ingrezza, it is essential to follow certain precautions. Here are some of the special precautions associated with Ingrezza:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to valbenazine or any other ingredients in Ingrezza. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
• Liver problems: Ingrezza is primarily metabolized by the liver. Individuals with moderate to severe liver impairment may require dosage adjustments or closer monitoring when taking this medication.
• Depression and suicidal thoughts: Ingrezza may increase the risk of depression and suicidal thoughts. It’s important to notify your doctor if you experience any changes in mood, behavior, or feelings of depression while taking this medication.
• Parkinson’s disease: Ingrezza is not recommended for use in patients with Parkinson’s disease, as it may worsen the symptoms.
• Drug interactions: Ingrezza may interact with other medications, including certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and drugs that affect the heart’s electrical activity (QT prolongation). Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The use of Ingrezza during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well studied. It’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.

These precautions are not exhaustive, and it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or refer to the prescribing information and medication guidelines specific to Ingrezza for a comprehensive understanding of its precautions, potential side effects, and drug interactions.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Ingrezza (generic name: valbenazine) is a medication used to treat tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder characterized by uncontrollable muscle movements, often caused by long-term use of certain psychiatric medications. When taking Ingrezza, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and any specific dietary guidelines they may provide. In general, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Ingrezza.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Regarding missed doses, if you forget to take a dose of Ingrezza, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose, it’s best to skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. It’s important not to take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Here are some common side effects that have been reported with Ingrezza:

• Sleepiness or drowsiness: Some individuals may experience drowsiness or feel sleepy while taking Ingrezza. It is advisable to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you know how the medication affects you.
• QT prolongation: Ingrezza may cause an abnormal heart rhythm called QT prolongation. This can be potentially serious, leading to fainting or irregular heartbeat. Your doctor may monitor your heart function through electrocardiograms (ECGs) and evaluate your risk factors before prescribing Ingrezza.
• Akathisia: Akathisia is a condition characterized by restlessness, an urge to move, and difficulty sitting still. It may occur as a side effect of Ingrezza. If you experience these symptoms, inform your healthcare provider.
• Parkinsonism: In some cases, Ingrezza can cause symptoms similar to those seen in Parkinson’s disease, such as muscle stiffness, tremors, and slowed movements.
• Other common side effects: Additional common side effects may include dry mouth, headache, nausea, fatigue, and changes in appetite.

It’s important to report any side effects you experience to your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms, determine their severity, and provide appropriate guidance. They may also adjust your dosage or consider alternative treatments if necessary.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and there may be other less common or rare side effects associated with Ingrezza. Always refer to the medication’s package insert or consult with a healthcare professional for comprehensive information about potential side effects.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage:

• Keep Ingrezza in its original container at room temperature (between 68°F and 77°F or 20°C and 25°C).
• Protect the medication from moisture and excessive heat.
• Store it away from direct light and out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Safely dispose of any unused or expired Ingrezza tablets.
• Do not flush the medication down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional.
• Contact your local waste disposal facility or pharmacist to inquire about the proper disposal methods for medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose, it is important to take appropriate action:

• If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects after taking Ingrezza, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• It’s helpful to have the original packaging or container with you so that medical professionals can identify the medication.
• Provide them with as much information as possible, including the amount of Ingrezza taken and the time of ingestion.

What other information should I know?

• Always take Ingrezza exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dosage or stop taking it without consulting your doctor.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Ingrezza.
• Discuss any existing medical conditions you have, such as liver problems or heart rhythm disorders, as they may affect your suitability for taking Ingrezza.
• Report any unusual or bothersome side effects to your doctor promptly.
• Attend all scheduled doctor’s appointments to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.

Remember, the information provided here is a general overview, and it’s important to follow the specific instructions and advice given by your healthcare provider regarding the storage, disposal, emergency procedures, and usage of Ingrezza.