A controlled trial of 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan for ataxia in progressive myoclonus epilepsy.

Abstract

To study the role of serotonin in the ataxia of progressive myoclonus epilepsy, eight patients received oral 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (L-5-HTP) or placebo plus carbidopa for 1 month in a controlled, double-blinded, dose-ranging, cross-over, add-on study. Ataxia was evaluated using objective and subjective scales. All of the subjects had significantly slower motor performance on timed, repetitive tasks than controls and had moderately severe ataxia. L-5-HTP was not efficacious for ataxia or speed of motor performance. Serotonergic drugs that work through mechanisms different than L-5-HTP may be more effective in correcting the abnormal serotonergic neurotransmission suggested by reduction of serotonin metabolites in cerebrospinal fluid in patients with progressive myoclonus epilepsy.

• Authors: M R Pranzatelli, E Tate, I Galvan, A Wheeler
• Journal: Clinical neurology and neurosurgery (Clin Neurol Neurosurg) Vol. 98 Issue 2 Pg. 161-4 (May 1996) ISSN: 0303-8467 [Print] Netherlands
• PMID: 8836591 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)

Chemical References

• 5-Hydroxytryptophan

Topics

• 5-Hydroxytryptophan (administration & dosage)
• Administration, Oral
• Adolescent
• Adult
• Ataxia (complications, drug therapy)
• Double-Blind Method
• Epilepsies, Myoclonic (complications)
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Prospective Studies