Valbenazine is used to treat tardive dyskinesia (a condition which causes uncontrollable twitching movements of the mouth, tongue and limbs).
Take Valbenazine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Valbenazine must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have heart rhythm problems as Valbenazine may not be suitable for you.
Do not take Valbenazine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine used to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and selegiline.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- liver disease
- kidney disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Genes may affect an individual’s response to certain medicines. Researchers say that certain genetic traits can affect the effectiveness or can enhance the side effects of Valbenazine. Individuals who are poor metabolisers of CYP2D6 may have an increased risk of experiencing side effects of this medicine. Though not routinely done, in some exceptional cases, your doctor may advise you to take genetic testing to check if this drug is best suited for you.
Valbenazine may cause you to suddenly fall asleep during your daily activities such as eating and watching television. Do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, dizziness, tiredness, blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation and risk of falls.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- fainting, fast, slow or irregular heartbeat; shortness of breath
- uncontrolled shaking, body stiffness, difficulty moving, walking or keeping balance
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not use Valbenazine with medicines used to treat depression known as monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) e.g. isocarboxazid, phenelzine, selegiline.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines to treat depression e.g. paroxetine, fluoxetine
- medicines for heart disease e.g. quinidine, digoxin
- medicines to treat fungal infection e.g. itraconazole, ketoconazole
- certain antibiotics e.g. clarithromycin
- medicine to treat TB (lung infection known as tuberculosis) e.g. rifampicin
- medicines for fits or seizures e.g. carbamazepine, phenytoin
- St. John’s wort (herbal medicine)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Valbenazine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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