Neurological
Medicines for Tourette's syndrome
A neurological condition causing involuntary sounds and movements called tics, usually starting in childhood — often improving with age, and managed with support and, if needed, therapy or medicines.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Tourette's syndrome?
Tourette's syndrome is a neurological condition characterised by tics — involuntary, repetitive sounds (vocal tics) and movements (motor tics). Tics can be simple (such as blinking, throat-clearing or grimacing) or more complex.
- How it is treated: Many people with tics need no specific treatment beyond understanding, reassurance and support, particularly if the tics are mild.
- Self-care: Understanding and accepting the tics, managing stress and tiredness (which can worsen tics), supportive environments at home and school, and addressing any coexisting conditions all help people live well with Tourette's.
- When to seek help: See a GP if tics are troublesome, causing distress or affecting daily life, school or work, or if there are coexisting difficulties such as attention or mood problems, for assessment and support.
What it is
Tourette's syndrome is a neurological condition characterised by tics — involuntary, repetitive sounds (vocal tics) and movements (motor tics). Tics can be simple (such as blinking, throat-clearing or grimacing) or more complex. They usually begin in childhood, often around the age of 5 to 7, tend to peak in the early teens, and frequently improve or settle in adulthood. Tics can vary over time and are often worse with stress, excitement or tiredness, and better when the person is absorbed in an activity. Contrary to popular belief, only a minority of people with Tourette's involuntarily swear. It commonly occurs alongside conditions such as ADHD and OCD.
How it is treated
Many people with tics need no specific treatment beyond understanding, reassurance and support, particularly if the tics are mild. When tics are troublesome or affecting daily life, a behavioural therapy specifically for tics can help people manage them, and medicines that reduce tics may be used in some cases. Just as important is recognising and supporting any coexisting conditions such as ADHD, OCD or anxiety, which can affect a person more than the tics themselves. Education for the person, family and school, and reducing stigma, make a real difference. Care may involve a neurologist or specialist team.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Tourette's syndrome
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Understanding and accepting the tics, managing stress and tiredness (which can worsen tics), supportive environments at home and school, and addressing any coexisting conditions all help people live well with Tourette's.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a GP if tics are troublesome, causing distress or affecting daily life, school or work, or if there are coexisting difficulties such as attention or mood problems, for assessment and support.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Tourette's syndrome: frequently asked questions
Do all people with Tourette's swear involuntarily?
No — this is a common misconception. Only a minority involuntarily swear. Most tics are movements or sounds such as blinking, throat-clearing or grimacing.
Does Tourette's syndrome get better?
Often, yes. Tics usually start in childhood, peak in the early teens, and frequently improve or settle in adulthood. Support and, if needed, therapy or medicines help in the meantime.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tourette's syndrome
- Tourettes Action / neurology guidance
Related conditions
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