Related Experiment Videos
[Gabapentin for spasticity: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial]
Alessandro Formica1, Katia Verger, Josep M Sol
1Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Nuestra Señora de Aránzazu, San Sebastián, Guipúzcoa, Spain. med002216@saludalia.com
Medicina Clinica
|February 16, 2005
Summary
Gabapentin effectively reduced spasticity in upper motor neuron syndrome patients. This pilot study found gabapentin (up to 3,600 mg/day) safe and efficacious, with fewer adverse events than placebo.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Upper motor neuron syndrome causes spasticity.
- Effective treatments for spasticity are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate gabapentin's efficacy and safety for treating spasticity in upper motor neuron syndrome.
- To assess gabapentin's impact on motor function and quality of life.
Main Methods:
- A 10-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial.
- Thirty patients with pyramidal-tract lesions received gabapentin (up to 3,600 mg/day) or placebo.
- Primary outcome: Ashworth Scale score; Secondary outcomes: Spasm Frequency Scale, range of movement, H/M Amplitude Ratio, Barthel Index.
Main Results:
- Gabapentin significantly improved Ashworth Scale scores for total and individual muscle groups.
- Significant reduction in spasms was observed in individual muscle groups with gabapentin.
- No significant changes in range of movement, H/M Amplitude Ratio, or Barthel Index.
- Gabapentin was well-tolerated, with fewer adverse events and withdrawals compared to placebo.
Conclusions:
- Gabapentin (2,700–3,600 mg/day) is an effective and safe treatment for spasticity in upper motor neuron syndrome.
- Gabapentin shows promise in managing spasticity without negatively impacting gait or quality of life.