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Idazoxan treatment in progressive supranuclear palsy
1Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston 02114.
Neurology
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Idazoxan (IDA) improved motor function in patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). This study confirmed that increasing norepinephrine neurotransmission can enhance motor performance in PSP patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor deficits.
- Preliminary findings suggested norepinephrine enhancement could improve motor performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm if idazoxan (IDA), a drug that increases norepinephrine, improves motor function in PSP patients.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of IDA in treating PSP symptoms.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, crossover study was conducted with nine PSP patients.
- Patients received idazoxan (40 mg tid) or placebo, with motor function assessed using the United Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale.
Main Results:
- Idazoxan significantly decreased the total and motor subscale scores of the United Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale.
- Improvements were noted in mobility, balance, gait, and digital dexterity.
- No significant improvements were observed in corticobulbar symptoms or eye movements.
Conclusions:
- Idazoxan demonstrated efficacy in improving motor function in PSP patients.
- This is the first medication shown in a double-blind study to benefit motor aspects of PSP.
- Further research into norepinephrine modulation for PSP is warranted.