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Dyskinesias possibly induced by norpseudoephedrine
1Psychiatrische Universitätsklinik, Göttingen, Germany.
Journal of Neurology
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Norpseudoephedrine (NPE), an appetite suppressant, may cause persistent dyskinetic syndromes like spasmodic torticollis and cranial dystonia. This drug-induced movement disorder can become chronic even after discontinuing NPE use.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
- Movement Disorders
Background:
- Appetite suppressants are commonly used without medical supervision.
- Norpseudoephedrine (NPE) is pharmacologically related to amphetamines, known to cause movement disorders.
- The potential for NPE to induce dyskinesias has not been previously documented.
Observation:
- Two previously healthy patients developed persistent dyskinetic syndromes (spasmodic torticollis and cranial dystonia) after taking NPE as an appetite suppressant.
- Symptoms persisted chronically, even after cessation of NPE intake.
- One patient had a potential co-existing condition of multiple sclerosis.
Findings:
- NPE intake is a potential cause of drug-induced dyskinesia.
- The observed dyskinesias, including spasmodic torticollis and cranial dystonia, became chronic.
- Structural lesions in the basal ganglia may increase susceptibility to developing such movement disorders.
Implications:
- Neurologists should consider appetite suppressants like NPE as a potential cause of unexplained dyskinetic syndromes.
- Increased awareness is needed regarding the neurological side effects of over-the-counter appetite suppressants.
- Further research is warranted to understand the mechanism and prevalence of NPE-induced dyskinesias.