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Tardive blepharospasm associated with cinnarizine use
Hortensia Alonso-Navarro1, Félix Javier Jiménez-Jiménez
1Sección de Neurología, Hospital Virgen de la Concha, Zamora, and Departamento de Medicina-Neurología, Hospital Príncipe de Asturias, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.
Clinical Neuropharmacology
|July 21, 2006
Summary
This case report suggests cinnarizine, a calcium-channel blocker, may cause tardive blepharospasm. Further investigation is needed to confirm this potential adverse effect of cinnarizine.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Blepharospasm is an involuntary contraction of the eyelid muscles.
- Calcium-channel blockers are commonly used for cardiovascular and neurological conditions.
- Cinnarizine is a piperazine derivative with antihistamine and calcium-channel blocking properties.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old woman experienced chronic blepharospasm.
- The blepharospasm developed during extended treatment with cinnarizine for vertigo.
Findings:
- This case suggests a possible link between cinnarizine therapy and the development of chronic blepharospasm.
- The term "tardive blepharospasm" is proposed to describe this potential adverse drug reaction.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider cinnarizine as a potential cause of blepharospasm in patients.
- This finding may prompt further research into the neurological side effects of cinnarizine.
- Awareness of this potential adverse effect can aid in earlier diagnosis and management.