Does amantadine maintain function in long-established brain injury? A single case experimental design.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Dopamine agonists (DA) are recognized for aiding consciousness and cognition post-acquired brain injury (ABI).
• The efficacy of dopamine agonists in later stages of ABI recovery remains less understood.
• This study investigates amantadine's role in sustained functional recovery years after ABI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of amantadine on functional status in a patient with chronic acquired brain injury.
• To assess the impact of amantadine withdrawal and reintroduction on daily activities and sleep patterns.
• To explore the potential of amantadine in maintaining function in later stages of ABI recovery.

Main Methods:

• A single-case experimental design (SCED) was employed.
• A scoring system assessed 34 component actions related to personal care and interaction.
• Amantadine dosage was systematically varied (maintenance, withdrawal, reintroduction), with daytime sleep duration monitored.

Main Results:

• Withdrawal of amantadine led to functional decline in 27 of 34 assessed activities within 3-5 weeks.
• Reintroduction of amantadine resulted in the return of most functions to baseline or improved levels.
• Daytime sleep duration increased significantly during amantadine withdrawal, decreasing upon resumption.

Conclusions:

• Amantadine demonstrates a beneficial effect in sustaining functional abilities in individuals with chronic acquired brain injury.
• The single-case experimental design provides a valuable model for future research in similar ABI trials.
• This case suggests amantadine may play a role in long-term ABI management and rehabilitation.