Tetrabenazine
Xenazine (tetrabenazine) is a prescription medication that reduces involuntary movements by decreasing dopamine activity in the brain. It is FDA-approved specifically for treating chorea associated with Huntington's disease, a genetic disorder causing progressive movement, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms.
Xenazine is used to treat chorea (involuntary jerking or writhing movements) in people with Huntington's disease.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 594629
- Generic
- Xenazine
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Xenazine is FDA-approved for the treatment of chorea associated with Huntington's disease, a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder characterized by involuntary movements, cognitive decline, and psychiatric symptoms.
Xenazine is a vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitor. It works by depleting dopamine from nerve terminals in the brain, which helps reduce the abnormal involuntary movements associated with chorea.
Xenazine may increase the risk of depression and suicidal thoughts, particularly in patients with a history of depression. It can also cause QT prolongation and should be used cautiously with other drugs that affect QT interval. Regular monitoring of mood and liver function is recommended during treatment.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy