If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a neurological disorder such as Huntington’s disease, tardive dyskinesia, or Tourette syndrome, your healthcare provider may have prescribed you Ingrezza capsules. This medication helps to reduce the involuntary movements or tics that are often associated with these conditions. However, you may be wondering if Ingrezza capsules can be opened if you have difficulty swallowing pills or need to adjust the dose. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide you with more information on this treatment.
Table of Contents
What is Ingrezza?
Ingrezza (valbenazine) is a medication that is used to treat two neurological disorders – tardive dyskinesia and Huntington’s disease. These conditions cause uncontrolled and involuntary movements or tics, which can be debilitating and affect the quality of life of the affected individual. Ingrezza works by blocking the dopamine receptors in the brain, which are responsible for these involuntary movements. This medication comes in the form of capsules that are taken orally, usually once a day or as directed by your healthcare provider.
Can Ingrezza capsules be opened?
The short answer is no. Ingrezza capsules should not be opened, crushed, chewed, or dissolved in water or other liquids. This is because the medication is designed to be released in the stomach at a specific rate and over a specific period. If the capsule is opened or crushed, it can cause the medication to be released too quickly or not as intended, which can make the medication less effective or cause side effects. It is also essential to take the medication at the same time each day, preferably in the evening, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider.
What if I can’t swallow Ingrezza capsules?
If you have difficulty swallowing Ingrezza capsules, it is essential to talk to your healthcare provider. Do not try to open or crush the capsules without your healthcare provider’s approval. Your healthcare provider may have different dosing options available, such as a different medication, a liquid formulation, or a smaller capsule. They may also refer you to a speech therapist who can help you improve your swallowing ability and make sure you receive the full benefits of Ingrezza.
What are the side effects of Ingrezza?
Like any medication, Ingrezza can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some of the most common side effects of Ingrezza include:
- sleepiness or drowsiness
- stomach upset, including nausea and diarrhea
- headache
- dry mouth
- increased appetite and weight gain
If you experience any of these side effects or other symptoms while taking Ingrezza, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
What precautions should I take while taking Ingrezza?
When taking Ingrezza, it is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and take the medication at the same time each day. Do not change your dose or stop taking the medication without your healthcare provider’s approval. Also, be sure to inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking or any medical conditions you have, including liver or kidney diseases or a history of depression. Ingrezza may interact with other medications or conditions, so it is essential to keep your healthcare provider informed of any changes.
Can I drive or operate heavy machinery while taking Ingrezza?
Ingrezza can cause drowsiness or sleepiness, so it is essential to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Ingrezza affects you. It is also crucial to avoid alcohol or other sedatives while taking Ingrezza, as they can increase the sedative effects of the medication.
Can Ingrezza be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Ingrezza is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding or planning to conceive, it is essential to discuss your options with your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Ingrezza is a medication that can help to reduce the involuntary movements and tics associated with certain neurological disorders. However, it is important to take the medication as directed and not to open or crush the capsules without your healthcare provider’s approval. If you have difficulty swallowing Ingrezza capsules, talk to your healthcare provider about alternative options. As with any medication, Ingrezza can cause side effects, so it is essential to be aware of these and to inform your healthcare provider of any symptoms or changes.
Most Common Questions
- Can I crush or open Ingrezza capsules? No, Ingrezza capsules should not be opened, crushed, chewed, or dissolved in water or other liquids.
- What if I can’t swallow Ingrezza capsules? Talk to your healthcare provider about alternative options, such as a different medication, a liquid formulation, or a smaller capsule.
- What are the side effects of Ingrezza? The most common side effects include sleepiness or drowsiness, stomach upset, headache, dry mouth, and increased appetite and weight gain.
- Should I take Ingrezza with food? Ingrezza can be taken with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Can I drive or operate heavy machinery while taking Ingrezza? Ingrezza can cause drowsiness or sleepiness, so it is essential to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Ingrezza affects you.
- Can I take Ingrezza while pregnant or breastfeeding? Ingrezza is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.