Neurological research indicates that stuttering may be caused by excessive levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain's speech control areas. A variety of drugs reduce dopamine levels. Studies of several drugs found stuttering reduced on average 25-60%.

The drug most-often prescribed for stuttering is FDA-approved only for short-term (6-8 week) treatment of schizophrenia. The drug has a wide variety of side effects (some severe or fatal). It may be beneficial to use the drug during the first few weeks of a stuttering therapy program, and reduce and eliminate the dosages as the stutterer progresses in therapy. The effects of long-term use are unknown.

Most anti-depressants increase stuttering. Stutterers considering medication for depression should read about these drugs carefully before taking them. Ritalin can increase stuttering in children.

Specific drugs are not mentioned in this FAQ because the decision to use medication should be considered more carefully this brief FAQ allows.