AAN Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorder Guidelines

New Tourette Guidelines will significantly impact care and treatment for people diagnosed with Tourette

Tourette Association of America President and CEO Amanda Talty issued the following statement on today’s release of the first-ever treatment guidelines issued by the American Academy of Neurology. TAA has been an ongoing participant in the development of the guidelines; ten of the co-authors are involved closely with TAA.

“The new guidelines are a major advance for the Tourette community, who struggle to find the right treatment for a very complex and varied condition. Medical care historically has not been consistent, and treatment depends on which healthcare provider a Tourette patient sees first. Coordinating care between neurologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, primary care physicians, occupational therapists and others is a challenge, and these guidelines will help ensure the team treating someone with Tourette has a uniform, patient-centered approach.

We are especially pleased to see the recommendation of Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics as a first line therapy. This therapy was developed by a team convened by the TAA and has been scientifically proven as an effective treatment through two randomized clinical trials. The guidelines also provide clear recommendations summarizing the risks and benefits of specific medications, assessing for co-occurring conditions and stress the need to provide an individualized treatment plan for patients that is re-evaluated over time.

From a broader perspective, the guidelines mean that Tourette syndrome is being seen and recognized, particularly by a global medical organization like the AAN. The Tourette community has long struggled with public acceptance and tolerance, and the guidelines help validate the real challenges faced by those diagnosed with Tourette and Tic Disorders.”