Austedo 2025: Comprehensive Guide on Drug Interactions, Prices, and Safety
Explore the latest 2025 insights on Austedo, including its interactions with medications, supplements, alcohol, and more. Learn how to safely use Austedo while managing involuntary movements.
Austedo (deutetrabenazine) is a prescription medication primarily used to manage involuntary movements associated with disorders such as Huntington’s disease and tardive dyskinesia. Understanding how Austedo interacts with other drugs, supplements, and alcohol is crucial for safe treatment.
Available in immediate-release and extended-release (Austedo XR) oral tablets, Austedo delivers medication either instantly or gradually, but both forms share similar interaction profiles.
Common Drug Interactions with Austedo
Before initiating Austedo, inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you use to minimize interaction risks. Key drug groups that may interact include:
| Drug Category | Examples | Potential Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)* | Isocarboxazid (Marplan), Phenelzine (Nardil), Rasagiline (Azilect), Selegiline (Emsam, Zelapar), Tranylcypromine (Parnate) | Heightened risk of adverse effects; co-administration is contraindicated. |
| Austedo-like Drugs* | Tetrabenazine (Xenazine), Valbenazine (Ingrezza) | Increased risk of side effects; avoid concurrent use. |
| Antiarrhythmics | Amiodarone (Pacerone), Quinidine, Sotalol (Betapace) | Elevated risk of irregular heartbeat. |
| Antipsychotics | Chlorpromazine, Haloperidol (Haldol), Risperidone (Risperdal) | Increased side effect potential. |
| Certain Antidepressants | Bupropion (Wellbutrin), Fluoxetine (Prozac), Paroxetine (Paxil) | Greater risk of side effects like drowsiness and heart rhythm disturbances. |
| Certain Antibiotics | Azithromycin (Zithromax), Clarithromycin, Moxifloxacin (Avelox) | Increased risk of irregular heartbeat (long QT syndrome). |
| Opioids | Morphine (MS Contin), Oxycodone (OxyContin), Tramadol (ConZip) | Severe drowsiness and respiratory depression risk. |
| Benzodiazepines | Alprazolam (Xanax), Diazepam (Valium), Lorazepam (Ativan) | Enhanced sedation and sleepiness. |
*Concomitant use with Austedo is not recommended.
When Should You Avoid Austedo?
Austedo is contraindicated in certain situations, including:
- Unmanaged depression or suicidal ideation in Huntington’s disease patients, due to increased risk of worsening symptoms.
- Liver impairment, as it can cause drug accumulation and heightened side effects.
- Concurrent use of MAOIs or similar drugs like tetrabenazine or valbenazine.
- Known allergies to Austedo or its components.
Alcohol and Austedo: What You Need to Know
Alcohol consumption should be avoided or limited during Austedo treatment because it can significantly increase drowsiness and sedation, potentially leading to dangerous side effects.
Detailed Interaction Insights
With Antidepressants
Some antidepressants can increase Austedo levels, amplifying side effects such as drowsiness and heart rhythm disturbances. Dosage adjustments and heart monitoring may be required.
With Antibiotics
Certain antibiotics share the risk of prolonging QT interval; combining them with Austedo may exacerbate this risk. Alternative antibiotics are usually preferred.
With Opioids
Both Austedo and opioids cause sedation and respiratory depression. Careful dose management and emergency preparedness with naloxone (Narcan) are advised.
Other Interactions
Austedo may also interact with supplements like melatonin and herbs such as valerian that promote sleepiness, increasing sedation risk. No known interactions with vitamins, food, vaccines, or lab tests have been reported, but always consult your healthcare provider.
Cannabis and Austedo: Cannabis and CBD can intensify drowsiness when taken with Austedo. Avoid cannabis use during treatment and inform your doctor if you use these products.
Health Considerations Affecting Austedo Use
Discuss your full medical history with your doctor before starting Austedo, especially if you have liver issues, heart rhythm disorders, low potassium or magnesium levels, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Support Resources
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, immediate help is available via the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or Crisis Text Line (741741). Seek emergency assistance as needed.
Preventing Drug Interactions
To minimize risks, always disclose your complete medication, supplement, and substance use history to your healthcare team. Follow prescribed dosages strictly and consult your provider before adding any new medications.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- How does my Austedo dose influence interaction risks?
- Which pain medications are safe to use with Austedo?
- Are alternative treatments available with fewer interactions?
For more on Austedo’s uses, side effects, and costs, explore related articles and subscribe to health newsletters for ongoing updates and support communities.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or changing treatment.
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