Pimozide (Orap)
About Pimozide (Orap)
Pimozide (brand name Orap) works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. Dopamine is a natural compound called a neurotransmitter, and is involved in transmitting messages between brain cells. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter known to be involved in regulating mood and behaviour, amongst other things.
It is assumed that the basic mechanism of pimozide’s action is related to its action on central aminergic receptors. It appears to have a selective ability to block central dopaminergic receptors, although it affects norepinephrine turnover at higher doses. The extrapyramidal effects typical of other neuroleptic agents are seen also with pimozide, but it appears to have fewer autonomic effects. As with other neuroleptics, endocrine effects and ECG changes have also been reported with pimozide
Pimozide should not be taken with grapefruit juice.
Pimozide should not be used by people with mild tics, by individuals taking stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin), pemoline (Cylert), or dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) since these drugs may cause tics.
Usual Side Effects
- Sleepiness
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Muscle tightness
- Muscle weakness
- Dizziness
- Mood changes
- Restlessness
- Slowed movements
Rare Side Effects
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Tardive dyskinesia
- Muscle spasms
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Irregular heartbeat
- Trouble breathing
- headache
- Sweating
Dosages
Treatment should be initiated at a dose of 0.05 mg/kg preferably taken once at bedtime. The dose may be increased every third day to a maximum of 0.2 mg/kg not to exceed 10 mg/day.
Pimozide and Tourette Syndrome
It is really strange but I see alot of success stories with Orap compared to Haldol. The common side effects seem to be tiredness which goes away after a few weeks and weight gain.But as with pretty much all the drugs, it works for awhile then it starts losing its effectiveness.
Personal expierence
None
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