Dopamine agonist therapy in low-response children following traumatic brain injury

The objective of this study was to determine whether a dopamine agonist could improve mental status among children in a low-response state following traumatic brain injury. In an 8-week, prospective, double-blind, randomized trial, 10 children and adolescents ages 8 to 21 years (X = 16.7 years) with traumatic brain injury sustained at least 1 month previously and remaining in a low-response state (Rancho Los Amigos Scale level pound 3) received pramipexole or amantadine. Medication dosage was increased over 4 weeks, weaned over 2 weeks, and then discontinued. At baseline and weekly during the study, subjects were evaluated with the Coma Near Coma Scale, Western NeuroSensory Stimulation Profile, and Disability Rating Scale. Scores improved significantly from baseline to the medication phase on the Coma Near Coma Scale, Western NeuroSensory Stimulation Profile, and Disability Rating Scale (P < .005). The weekly rate of change was significantly better for all three measures on medication than off medication (P < .05). Rancho Los Amigos Scale levels improved significantly on medication as well (P < .05). There was no difference in efficacy between amantadine and pramipexole. No unexpected or significant side effects were observed with either drug. This clinical trial supports the benefit of two dopamine agonists in the restoration of functional arousal, awareness, and communication. These drugs can be helpful in accelerating eligibility for acute rehabilitation among children and adolescents who have sustained significant brain injuries.