for HD Chorea in Adults

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Living with
HD chorea

Treating HD chorea can lessen the physical impact to help you stay independent longer1,2,3,4

In a survey, 50% of people found it easier to hold a glass, fork, and feed themselves since starting AUSTEDO XR

In a survey

50% of people found it easier to hold a glass, fork, and feed themselves since starting AUSTEDO XR®.3,*

*Results from a real-world survey including 31 patients with HD chorea taking AUSTEDO XR.

Assembling your
HD chorea care team5-7

Ask your primary care doctor and/or neurologist to refer you to other healthcare professionals who can help manage the various symptoms of Huntington’s disease. A strong healthcare support network for HD chorea may include a/an:

  • Physical therapist to assist in improving strength, mobility, balance, and function
  • Occupational therapist to suggest methods that may improve your ability to perform everyday tasks
  • Speech pathologist to address difficulties with speaking and communication
  • Nutritionist or dietitian to assist with diet, fluctuations in weight, and swallowing problems
  • Psychiatrist or psychologist who can treat mental health conditions associated with HD, such as depression
  • Therapist or counselor who can help everyone in your family manage stress and intense emotions

Reduce the movements of
HD chorea with AUSTEDO XR.2

Start the conversation with your doctor about
treating HD chorea with AUSTEDO XR.

Get started

Making your home HD chorea friendly

People with HD chorea may have difficulty with everyday activities such as eating, drinking, getting dressed, and maintaining personal hygiene. Small adjustments throughout the home can improve safety and help lessen the impact HD chorea has on day-to-day tasks.4,5

In the kitchen4:

  • Use durable plates, bowls, and non-stemmed glassware
  • Use utensils with large handles
  • Use nonskid placemats to prevent dishes from moving

In the bathroom4,8:

  • Place a nonskid mat in the shower or bathtub
  • Get a chair or bench for use in the shower
  • Consider using an electronic toothbrush
  • Install safety bars in the shower and by the toilet
  • Avoid using bar soap as it’s slippery and easy to drop

In the living room and bedroom4,9:

  • Remove rugs or thick carpets to avoid tripping
  • Ensure chairs have armrests and high backs
  • Eliminate unnecessary furniture and ensure rooms are well-lit

Tips for healthy eating10,11

The involuntary movements of HD chorea may burn a considerable amount of calories—which may lead to a struggle to maintain a healthy weight. Incorporating nutrient-
rich, calorie-dense foods may be beneficial to those with HD chorea.

Add healthy fats:

Avocados; smooth (not chunky) nut
butters such as peanut, almond, or cashew; and sesame tahini make great additions to any meal. Walnut, flax seed, avocado, and olive oils are also sources of healthy fats.

Create a healthy
eating environment:

Schedule mealtimes, keep conversations simple, and remove distractions such as the TV or radio. Allow plenty of time for those with HD chorea to finish their meals.

Choose colorful foods:

Red fruits and vegetables like tomatoes,
watermelon, and pink grapefruit contain heart-healthy lycopene that may reduce inflammation.

Purple fruits such as blackberries, grapes, and
prunes contain anthocyanin, an antioxidant that may
support heart health.

Orange foods such as carrots, mangoes, and sweet potatoes are rich in carotenoids, which may support immunity.

Green vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and
brussels sprouts contain isothiocyanates, which
may boost liver function.

Stay in the know

Sign up for HD chorea treatment tips, information about patient support,
and educational resources.

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References:

1. Beglinger LJ, O’Rourke JJ, Wang C, Langbehn DR, Duff K, Paulsen JS; Huntington Study Group Investigators. Earliest functional declines in Huntington disease. Psychiatry Res. 2010;178(2):414-418.

2. AUSTEDO XR® (deutetrabenazine) extended-release tablets/AUSTEDO® (deutetrabenazine) tablets current Prescribing Information. Parsippany, NJ: Teva Neuroscience, Inc.

3. Data on file. Parsippany, NJ: Teva Neuroscience, Inc.

4. Thorley EM, Iyer RG, Wicks P, et al. Understanding how chorea affects health-related quality of life in Huntington disease: an online survey of patients and caregivers in the United States. Patient. 2018;11(5):547-559.

5. Tarapata K, Murray CF. A Caregiver's Guide to Huntington's Disease. Huntington's Disease Society of America; 2011. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://hdsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/A-Caregivers-Guide-to-HD.pdf

6. Nance MA, Paulsen JS, Rosenblatt A, Wheelock V. A Physician's Guide to the Management of Huntington Disease. 3rd ed. Huntington Society of Canada; 2013. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://www.huntingtonsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/PhysGuide2013_WebsiteCopy_Reduced1.pdf

7. Downing NR, Gaba A, Gorsky SL, et al. A Caregiver Guide for HD Families. Huntington’s Disease Society of America; 2016. Accessed January 24, 2024. http://hdsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/HDSA_CaregiverGuideFamilies_Final.pdf

8. Bathing & grooming. Parkinson's Foundation. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://www.parkinson.org/living-with-parkinsons/management/activities-daily-living/bathing-grooming

9. Home safety. Parkinson's Foundation. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://www.parkinson.org/living-with-parkinsons/management/activities-daily-living/home-safety

10. Tarapata K, Lovecky D, eds. Nutrition and Huntington’s Disease: A Guide for Families. Huntington’s Disease Society of America; 2010. Accessed January 24, 2024. https://hdsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/11695.pdf

11. Schaeffer J. Color me healthy — eating for a rainbow of benefits. Today’s Dietitian. 2008;10(11):34. Accessed February 9, 2024. https://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/11038p34.shtml