The effect of dantrolene sodium in relation to blood levels in spastic patients after prolonged administration

J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 1981 Apr;44(4):334-9. doi: 10.1136/jnnp.44.4.334.

Abstract

In 25 patients with spasticity, pharmacokinetics and effects of dantrolene sodium were investigated after prolonged administration. A beneficial effect occurred in seven patients. The results were better on 100 mg daily than on a higher daily dose. An increase of the daily dose from 200 to 400 mg was not associated with higher blood levels. Many side effects were noted such as: anorexia, nausea, drowsiness, depression and muscle weakness. From this study we conclude that dantrolene sodium is a muscle relaxant with a weak to moderate effect in patients with spasticity; the effect at doses higher than 200 mg daily is probably poor.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Brain Concussion / drug therapy
  • Dantrolene / therapeutic use*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Sclerosis / drug therapy
  • Muscle Relaxants, Central / therapeutic use*
  • Muscle Spasticity / drug therapy*
  • Paralysis / drug therapy
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / drug therapy

Substances

  • Muscle Relaxants, Central
  • Dantrolene