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Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and periodic limb movements of sleep

Martina Vendrame1, Marcin Zarowski, Tobias Loddenkemper

  • 1Division of Clinical Neurophysiology and Sleep, Department of Neurology, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

Pediatric Neurology
|August 10, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Children taking serotonin reuptake inhibitors have a significantly higher risk of developing periodic limb movements of sleep. This study highlights the need for careful monitoring and management in pediatric patients using these medications.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatrics
  • Sleep Medicine

Background:

  • Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) are commonly prescribed for various pediatric conditions.
  • Adult studies suggest a link between SRIs and periodic limb movements of sleep (PLMS).
  • The risk of PLMS in children treated with SRIs remains largely uncharacterized.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between serotonin reuptake inhibitor use and the incidence of periodic limb movements of sleep in children.
  • To compare the prevalence and severity of PLMS in children on SRIs versus those not on SRIs.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of polysomnography (PSG) data from 1,023 children over one year.
  • Data analysis included children receiving SRIs and a control group not receiving SRIs.
  • Prevalence and median periodic limb movement index (PLMI) were compared between groups.

Main Results:

  • Periodic limb movements of sleep were diagnosed in 31.7% of children on SRIs compared to 7.8% of controls (Odds Ratio 5.45).
  • The median PLMI was significantly higher in children receiving SRIs (11.2) than in the control group (6.5; P < 0.05).
  • Children on SRIs demonstrated a substantially elevated risk for PLMS.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric patients treated with serotonin reuptake inhibitors are at an increased risk for developing periodic limb movements of sleep.
  • Clinical vigilance and appropriate management strategies are crucial for addressing PLMS in this population.
  • Optimizing PLMS control can potentially improve the quality of life for children on SRIs.

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