Diphenhydramine is effective in the treatment of idiopathic dystonia.

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 No patients were withdrawn from the trial for adverse side effects.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.