Stuttering is a DSM V psychiatric condition for which there are no FDA-approved medications for treatment. A growing body of evidence suggests that
dopamine antagonist medications are effective in reducing the severity of
stuttering symptoms.
Stuttering shares many similarities to
Tourette's Syndrome in that both begin in childhood, follow a similar male to female ratio of 4:1, respond to
dopamine antagonists, and symptomatically worsen with
dopamine agonists. In recent years, advances in the neurophysiology of
stuttering have helped further guide pharmacological treatment. A newer medication with a novel mechanism of action, selective D1 antagonism, is currently being investigated in FDA trials for the treatment of
stuttering. D1 antagonists possess different side-effect profiles than D2 antagonist medications and may provide a unique option for those who stutter. In addition, VMAT-2 inhibitors alter
dopamine transmission in a unique mechanism of action that offers a promising treatment avenue in
stuttering. This review seeks to highlight the different treatment options to help guide the practicing clinician in the treatment of
stuttering.