Orap
(pimozide)
Treats tics that happen with Tourette syndrome.
Our bottom line
Orap (pimozide) can be used for Tourette's, but your doctor will try other medicines first because of the side effects.
- Drug class: Neuro/psych
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (pimozide)
Upsides
- Orap (pimozide) is available as a generic.
- There are programs available that can make Orap (pimozide) less expensive.
- Orap (pimozide) is approved for children and adults.
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What to expect from Orap, on one page
Download Fact SheetDownsides
- Orap (pimozide) is not a first choice for Tourette syndrome, and it has to be used with your other medicines.
- You're more likely to have problems with your movements.
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What to expect from Orap, on one page
Download Fact SheetOrap (pimozide) is a typical antipsychotic. It lowers levels of dopamine in the brain, but researchers don't know how that helps treat Tourette syndrome.
- Drug class: Neuro/psych
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (pimozide)
Used for
Dosage forms
- Pill
Prices and coupons
Skip prices section. Skip to what to expect section.- Rite AidGet free coupon$39.59
- CostcoGet free coupon$50.41
What to expect when you take Orap (pimozide) for Tourette syndrome
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Starts to kick inFull effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Difficulty controlling movements
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
- Higher risk of infection
- Sleepiness
- Higher risk of seizures
Side effect rates for Orap (pimozide)
- Sleepiness70%70%25%25%
- Weakness40%40%
- Difficulty using muscles40%40%
- Drowsiness35%35%
- Changes in behavior25%25%
- Sleepiness25%25%
- Changes in behavior22%22%
- Dry mouth20%20%5%5%
- Constipation20%20%10%10%
- Vision changes20%20%
- Changes in focusing in the eyes20%20%
- Muscle tightness15%15%
- Unable to get or maintain an erection15%15%
- Weakness14%14%
- Stooped posture10%10%
- Trouble sleeping10%10%10%10%
- Rigidity10%10%
- Speech problems10%10%
- Depression10%10%15%15%
- Increased salivation6%6%
- Nervousness6%6%
- Headache5%5%10%10%
- Diarrhea5%5%
- Thirst5%5%
- Increased appetite5%5%
- Changes in handwriting5%5%
- Nervousness5%5%
- Changes in taste5%5%
- Light sensitivity in the eyes5%5%
- Headache3%3%
- Trouble swallowing3%3%
- Muscle pain3%3%
- Abnormal dreams3%3%
- Muscle spasms, general3%3%
- Muscle spasms in the neck3%3%
- Skin rashes3%3%
- Vision changes3%3%
- Abnormal echocardiogram3%3%
The placebo bar shows how common a side effect was for people taking a sugar pill instead of Orap.
People taking Orap felt side effect more
People taking Orap felt side effect less
Risks and Warnings for Orap (pimozide)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.Some people have noticed changes in being able to control movements while on Orap (pimozide). This can be permanent if it's not taken care of right away. Call your doctor right away if this happens.
Common concerns from people taking Orap (pimozide)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?Research studies with animals found harmful effects on unborn babies. It hasn’t been properly studied in humans. The benefits might outweigh the risks even if you’re pregnant. Talk with your doctor.
Tip: Always talk with your doctor before you take any medication while pregnant.- Don't have grapefruit or drink alcohol while taking Orap (pimozide).
- People have complained of sleepiness when starting Orap (pimozide). This usually goes away after a few days to weeks. Don't drive or do anything that requires concentration until you know how it affects you.
- Orap (pimozide) can make you feel sleepy, so don't drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.