It is often difficult to predict which treatment is best, as many medications have side effects or varying degrees of effectiveness in different patients. These can be tough decisions, that the TS sufferer, along with his or her doctor, family, and friends, needs to make.

Low doses of antipsychotic medications, such as haloperidol and pimozide. Haloperidol is a popular choice, as up to 80% of TS sufferers respond to it and show improvement. However, there are so many side effects that can develop, that only 20-30% of patients continue to use this medication. Pimozide has similar side effects, but they are usually milder and less widespread. Clonidine has a lower effectiveness rate, but it doesn’t have many side effects (and none of them is serious).

Stimulants are a controversial choice, although they treat Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity (ADHD). They also increase tics, which can heighten problems. The drug names are Cylert, Dexedrine, and Ritalin.

Medications to treat obsessive-compulsive traits are sometimes prescribed, such as clomipramine, fluoxetine, paroxetine, risperidone, and sertraline.

With all medications, the patient will be started on a low dose. The doctor can then increase the dose gradually to find the right level for the individual patient. This way, the doctor can find the best balance of symptom relief with minimum side effects.

Many people with TS also use therapy. The TS sufferer (along with his or her family) can use psychotherapy to help with coping. A technique called behavior therapy can attempt to replace a tic with another tic that is more socially acceptable and less disruptive. Since many tic bouts are brought on by stress, a person with TS might opt to use relaxation techniques and biofeedback. These techniques can help with learning how to stay relaxed even in difficult situations. This way, the reactions to stress are more under control and less likely to cause a flare-up of symptoms.