Aripiprazole in treatment of Gilles de la Tourette syndrome – New therapeutic option

Aripiprazole is a dopamine D2- and serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)1A receptor partial agonist and 5-HT2A receptor antagonist primarily used for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or depression with psychotic ideation. However, recently a number of new possible indications have been suggested, among them Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS). In two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies in children and adolescents with GTS has been confirmed the efficacy of aripiprazole in tic reduction. In comparison to other neuroleptics, aripiprazole seems to be similarly effective. What is more, the number and profile of possible adverse effects is also favorable. As a consequence, aripiprazole had been registered by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of tics and represents new therapeutic option in treatment of GTS.