Does Neuro-Stimulants Use Improve Functionality in Patients With Decreased Level of Consciousness?
Erin DIviney MD; Claudia Pop MD; Mark Sumers MD; Sunil S. Menawat MD; and Michael Worzniak MD. Erin Diviney, M.D. Oakwood Annapolis Hospital, Dearborn, presenter. Previous studies have shown an effect of improved level of consciousness in patients with coma with use of Methylphenidate (1). We were interested in evaluating the effects of Methylphenidate on patients with less drastic deficits in their level of consciousness but still with cognitive or functional deficits that give them a high Disability Rating Score (DRS). We designed a study following a protocol previously used in clinical practice by one of the PI in treating similar patients. Prior to inclusion, patients were deemed medically stable for CHF, infection, electrolytes and neurological function. Those patients with an initial DRS score greater than four were included. A test dose of 5 mg methylphenidate (at 6 am & 12 noon) was given. After two days, the dose was increased to 10 mg, twice daily. If the DRS remained greater
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