Aripiprazole in Meige Syndrome: Clinical Response and Implications for Treatment Development

Meige syndrome is a segmental form of dystonia where botulinum toxins are the preferred treatment option. However, its invasive nature, treatment costs, partial responsiveness, and benefit duration are some of their limitations.

Six consecutive subjects with Meige syndrome were treated only with aripiprazole.

A dramatic response was obtained in all subjects during the first weeks of treatment. Aripiprazole mean ± SD daily dose was 7.9 ± 3.6 mg. Three subjects developed parkinsonism related to aripiprazole treatment; the former improved after reducing the dosage, without significant worsening of cranial dystonia. After a mean ± SD follow-up of 2.0 ± 0.7 years, clinical benefit persists over time, with a mean percentage reduction of Unified Dystonia Rating Score of 75.6% ± 8.4%.

Aripiprazole should be considered as an alternative treatment option among subjects with Meige syndrome, especially in those refractory to botulinum toxin injections. The clinical response shown in our patients may lead to treatment development.