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Daniel D. Truong, MD; Paola Sandroni, MD; Stanley van den Noort, MD; Rae R. Matsumoto, PhD

Arch Neurol. 1995;52(4):405-407.

Abstract
Objective
To assess the effectiveness of diphenhydramine hydrochloride (Benadryl) in the treatment of patients with idiopathic truncal dystonia.

Design
Before-and-after trial.

Setting
University referral center.

Patients
Five consecutive patients with idiopathic truncal dystonia who were poorly treated with conventional pharmacotherapies. No patients were withdrawn from the trial for adverse side effects.

Interventions
Treatments with diphenhydramine hydrochloride (50 mg intravenously or up to 500 mg/kg orally). Follow-up for up to 20 months.

Main Outcome Measure
Dystonia evaluation.

Results
Diphenhydramine therapy was associated with minimal side effects, and it was most effective in treating patients with dystonia who experienced lightning jerks. Treatment with intravenous diphenhydramine may have a predictive value on a future response to oral therapy.

Conclusion
Diphenhydramine should be considered a therapeutic option for idiopathic truncal dystonia with lightning jerks.

Author Affiliations
From the Parkinson and Movement Disorders Program, Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine.