deutetrabenazine

Deutetrabenazine is a small molecule vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitor used for the treatment of chorea associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia. It is a deuterated derivative of tetrabenazine, where six hydrogen atoms are replaced by deuterium, resulting in slower metabolism and longer half-life. This modification allows for less frequent dosing and improved tolerability compared to tetrabenazine. Deutetrabenazine works by inhibiting VMAT2, reducing the uptake of monoamines (such as dopamine) into synaptic vesicles in neurons, thereby decreasing their release and helping control involuntary movements. The drug was developed by Teva Pharmaceuticals and was the first deuterated drug approved by the FDA[1][2][5][10].

Brand names

AustedoAustedo XR

Other names

deutetrabenazine