Active ingredient: Tetrabenazine

Brand Name: Nitoman and Xenazine

Drug class: Vesicular monoamine transporter-2 (VMAT2) inhibitors

Mechanism of Action:

Tetrabenazine is a vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitor. It works by blocking the storage of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine in nerve cells, reducing their levels in the brain. This helps decrease excessive dopamine activity, which is responsible for involuntary movements.
Tetrabenazine is primarily used to treat hyperkinetic movement disorders, such as Huntington’s disease, tardive dyskinesia, and chorea, by controlling abnormal, involuntary movements.

Effect on fertility biomarkers

Tetrabenazine can affect body temperature regulation due to its mechanism of action, which reduces dopamine levels. This can lead to fluctuations in basal body temperature, potentially causing hyperthermia, a key symptom of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS). NMS is characterized by high fever, altered mental status, muscle rigidity, and autonomic dysfunction, often requiring immediate medical intervention.

First
Second
Third
…

Temperature

View the chart

References:

Caroff SN. Risk of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome with Vesicular Monoamine Transporter Inhibitors. Clin Psychopharmacol Neurosci. 2020 May 31;18(2):322-326. doi: 10.9758/cpn.2020.18.2.322. PMID: 32329312; PMCID: PMC7242105.

Comments

If you have used this medication and monitored fertility biomarkers, please share your experience.

Disclaimer: The information provided may not include all possible interactions or side effects of medication. The effects on fertility biomarkers can vary and may depend on the dosage, how long the medication is used, the medical condition, or other factors. This database is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider or a qualified health professional if you have questions about medications, fertility, or medical conditions.