Combination of aripiprazole and valproate in children with tic disorders: Case series

Tics are characterised by involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalisations that significantly impair affected children’s quality of life. These disorders, primarily originating in the basal ganglia, are often misdiagnosed and inadequately treated. The exact aetiology of tic disorders is believed to involve a combination of genetic, neurobiological and environmental factors. Stress is an exacerbating factor leading to an increase in tic frequency and intensity. We present three cases of children diagnosed with tic disorders and who exhibited substantial improvement through a combination of aripiprazole and valproate. The children, aged 7 to 15 years, had previously received various treatments with limited success. Upon switching to the combined therapy of with aripiprazole and valproate, they showed marked improvement in tic severity and associated behavioural issues. The combination treatment requires further research to validate our observations and to refine treatment protocols for children with tic disorders.