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Marked amelioration of alcohol‐responsive posthypoxic myoclonus by γ‐hydroxybutyric acid (Xyrem)
Author(s) -
Frucht Steven J.,
Bordelon Yvette,
Houghton William H.
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
movement disorders
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.352
H-Index - 198
eISSN - 1531-8257
pISSN - 0885-3185
DOI - 10.1002/mds.20452
Subject(s) - myoclonus , alcohol , psychology , medicine , neuroscience , chemistry , biochemistry
We conducted an open‐label, dose‐finding, blinded‐rating trial of γ‐hydroxybutyric acid (Xyrem) in a single patient with severe alcohol‐responsive posthypoxic myoclonus refractory to treatment with standard antimyoclonic agents. Xyrem was given in divided doses during the day and was well tolerated. Intensity of myoclonus was measured using the Unified Myoclonus Rating Scale, and blinded videotape review demonstrated complete resolution of myoclonus at rest and stimulus‐sensitive myoclonus. Action myoclonus and functional performance also improved in ways that were practically meaningful, allowing her to feed herself, to accomplish daily hygiene tasks, and to walk with assistance. The possible mechanisms of action and potential uses of this agent in other alcohol‐responsive movement disorders are discussed. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society