Pharmacological treatments of REM sleep behaviour disorder in synucleinopathies: a systematic review of effectiveness and safety.
Jess J Byun, Vellingiri Raja Badrakalimuthu
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness and safety of pharmacological treatments for REM sleep behaviour disorder (RBD) in synucleinopathies, including Parkinson's disease and related conditions. Eighteen studies were included, revealing that while clonazepam and melatonin are commonly used, their efficacy and safety are inconsistent. Clonazepam raised safety concerns, while melatonin's effectiveness varied across different phenotypes.
Key findings
- Clonazepam and melatonin are the principal treatments, but evidence for their efficacy is limited and inconsistent.
- Subjective clinical improvement was reported more frequently than objective vPSG improvement.
- Clonazepam raised important safety concerns in vulnerable synucleinopathy populations.
- Evidence for other pharmacological agents remains preliminary.
Why it matters
Understanding the effectiveness and safety of treatments for RBD in synucleinopathies is crucial for clinicians managing these patients, as current evidence is limited and inconsistent, impacting treatment decisions.