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Treatment of Postanoxic Intention Myoclonus with Valproic Acid

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 September 2015

J. Bruni
Affiliation:
Neurology Service, Veterans Administration Hospital and Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
L.J. Willmore*
Affiliation:
Neurology Service, Veterans Administration Hospital and Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
B.J. Wilder
Affiliation:
Neurology Service, Veterans Administration Hospital and Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
*
Neurology Service (127), Veterans Administration Hospital, Gainesville, Florida 32602, U.S.A.
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Summary

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Valproic acid in therapeutic doses was used in the treatment of postanoxic intention myoclonus. Disappearance of the myoclonus occurred with marked improvement in the electroencephalogram. No significant side effects were noted. Hepatic function tests were monitored. Determination of valproic acid plasma levels was used to guide therapy. Levels above 55 ßg were generally required. The patient remains free of myoclonus after four and one half months.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation 1979

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