ergoline and Peripheral-Nervous-System-Diseases

A systematic literature review and meta-analyses (where appropriate) were performed to update the previous AASM practice parameters on the treatments, both dopaminergic and other, of RLS and PLMD. A considerable amount of literature has been published since these previous reviews were performed, necessitating an update of the corresponding practice parameters. Therapies with a STANDARD level of recommendation include pramipexole and ropinirole. Therapies with a GUIDELINE level of recommendation include levodopa with dopa decarboxylase inhibitor, opioids, gabapentin enacarbil, and cabergoline (which has additional caveats for use). Therapies with an OPTION level of recommendation include carbamazepine, gabapentin, pregabalin, clonidine, and for patients with low ferritin levels, iron supplementation. The committee recommends a STANDARD AGAINST the use of pergolide because of the risks of heart valve damage. Therapies for RLS secondary to ESRD, neuropathy, and superficial venous insufficiency are discussed. Lastly, therapies for PLMD are reviewed. However, it should be mentioned that because PLMD therapy typically mimics RLS therapy, the primary focus of this review is therapy for idiopathic RLS.

Topics: Academies and Institutes; Benzothiazoles; Cabergoline; Carbamates; Dopamine Agents; Ergolines; Evidence-Based Medicine; gamma-Aminobutyric Acid; Humans; Indoles; Levodopa; Nocturnal Myoclonus Syndrome; Pergolide; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases; Pramipexole; Restless Legs Syndrome; Sleep Medicine Specialty; United States; Venous Insufficiency

Clinical ergotism as seen today results almost exclusively from the excessive intake of ergotamine tartrate in the treatment of migraine headache. Although both gangrenous and convulsive symptoms are seen in naturally occurring ergotism resulting from the ingestion of fungus infected rye, only gangrenous ergotism has been reported following the excessive ingestion of ergotamine tartrate. The symptoms of both iatrogenic and naturally occurring ergotism appear to result from regional ischemia caused by ergot induced vasospasm. This report discribes experiences in the diagnosis and management of two patients with unusual manifestations of iatrogenic ergotism. One patient presented with ischemia of all extremities and bilateral foot drop probably due to ischemic damage to the common peroneal nerves, a finding not previously described in ergot intoxication. The foot drop totally resolved in several months following the discontinuation of ergot. A second patient presented with unilateral leg ischemia and transient monocular blindness, both of which resolved after discontinuation of ergot. Both patients displayed typical angiographic findings of ergotism. There is no convincing evidence that any treatment other than discontinuation of ergotamine is of benefit in the treatment of iatrogenic ergotism.

Topics: Adult; Angiography; Arm; Blindness; Ergolines; Ergotamines; Ergotism; Extremities; Female; Femoral Artery; Humans; Ischemia; Leg; Male; Middle Aged; Peripheral Nervous System Diseases; Peroneal Nerve; Popliteal Artery; Retinal Vessels