Valbenazin

Valbenazine is a prescription medication that acts as a vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitor. It is approved for the treatment of tardive dyskinesia (TD), a movement disorder associated with long-term use of certain antipsychotic medications. In the United States, valbenazine was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2017 and is marketed under the brand name Austedo in many markets.

Valbenazine works by selectively inhibiting VMAT2, a protein responsible for transporting monoamines such as dopamine into synaptic vesicles. By reducing vesicular storage and release of dopamine, valbenazine decreases dopaminergic signaling in brain circuits that control movement, which helps lessen abnormal involuntary movements seen in TD.

Administration is oral, provided as capsules. The typical regimen starts at 40 mg once daily for two weeks, with possible titration to 80 mg once daily based on tolerability and response. The maximum recommended daily dose is 80 mg. It can be taken with or without food. Dose adjustments may be needed for liver impairment, and clinicians monitor for drug interactions.

Common adverse effects include somnolence, fatigue, headache, and nausea. Valbenazine can interact with other medicines that affect liver enzymes, particularly inhibitors or inducers of CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, so clinicians review concomitant medications.

There is ongoing research into other potential uses and comparative effectiveness with other VMAT2 inhibitors. Valbenazine is one of several VMAT2 inhibitors used in movement disorder management.