Perhexiline maleate and peripheral neuropathy

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Perhexiline maleate is used for angina pectoris prophylaxis.
• Peripheral neuropathy is a known complication of perhexiline maleate therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the characteristics of peripheral neuropathy associated with perhexiline maleate.
• To assess the impact of treatment cessation on neuropathy outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) studies were performed on 24 patients.
• Clinical assessment of neuropathy symptoms and prognosis.

Main Results:

• Nerve conduction slowing and EMG changes indicated a primarily demyelinating neuropathy.
• Cessation of perhexiline maleate therapy led to improvement in most patients.
• Active denervation in some cases suggested a less favorable prognosis.

Conclusions:

• Perhexiline maleate can induce a demyelinating peripheral neuropathy.
• Treatment withdrawal is associated with recovery.
• Prognosis varies, with some patients experiencing persistent deficits.