Preliminary study of glycopyrrolate in the management of drooling.

OBJECTIVE

A study was undertaken to assess the efficacy of an oral anticholinergic drug, glycopyrrolate, in the management of drooling in children and young adults with disabilities.

METHODOLOGY

Glycopyrrolate was used by 24 children and young adults for up to 28 months. Parents/carers were asked to complete a questionnaire on the effects of the drug on severity and frequency of drooling and to report any side-effects.

RESULTS

Twenty-two questionnaires were returned. There was a statistically significant decrease in both severity and frequency of drooling with minimal side-effects reported.

CONCLUSION

In this preliminary study, glycopyrrolate was found to be an effective and well-tolerated addition to the management of drooling in children with disabilities.