Treatments

How do we manage Tourette Syndrome?
Tics are treated with a multidisciplinary approach that can involve medical management, psychosocial support and care, and educational support/advocacy as needed.  Because each person’s tics are different, and the personal impact of tics differs for each person, treatment must be individualized.  In general, the main focus is on treatment of bothersome symptoms.  In other words, symptoms that do not cause impairment, disability, or discomfort may not require treatment.

All treatment options have the goal of managing tics and other bothersome symptoms, but there is no established treatment that will cure tics altogether. By themselves, tics may not cause any problems. However, if tics are bothersome, painful, or cause other problems for an individual, evidence-based treatment include:

• Medication: There are several different medications that have been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of tics. One of our physicians or nurse practitioners will discuss options with you including benefits and risks.
• Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT):  CBIT is a structured behavioral treatment that has been shown to reduce tic frequency and severity.  CBIT usually involves a maximum of 8 – 10 appointments (each is approx. 45 minutes long).  CBIT also helps people to become aware of, and to manage, daily stress or other triggers that may worsen their tics. We have three experts trained in administering CBIT.

 
Other potential treatment options may include:

• Botulinum toxin
• Deep brain stimulation (DBS)

 
What are other treatment concerns for individuals with Tourette Syndrome or other Tic Disorders?
Tic disorders can co-occur with other neurobehavioral conditions that may also impact the lives of individuals with tics.  For this reason, treatment often focuses on managing these conditions as well. Whether or not medication is used to manage tics, it may be prescribed if necessary to help treat some common, co-occurring conditions, such as: Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). While some people with tics may also have one or more of these other conditions, many people will only have a tic disorder.
 
How do we manage Tourette Syndrome in adults?
Tourette Syndrome is a lifelong condition. The UR Tourette Center of Excellence is co-directed by Dr. Peter Morrison, an Adult Movement Disorders Neurologist with expertise in Tourette Syndrome in children and adults. Transition to adult medicine is seamless with the presence of Dr. Morrison within both pediatric and adult clinics. As in children with Tourette Syndrome, management of Tourette's Syndrome and related conditions is individualized to fit the patient’s unique needs.