Combination of central and peripheral muscle relaxants in the treatment of post-stroke spasticity

Abstract

To study the electromiographic (EMG) parameters and to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of a combination of central (baclofen, baclosan) and peripheral (incobotulotoxinA, xeomin) muscle relaxants in the treatment of post-stroke spasticity (PSS). Ninety-six patients with PSS of upper and lower limbs were divided into 2 groups: the first group (n=56) was treated with xeomin and the second (n=40) received combined therapy of xeomin and baclofen. Xeomin was administered according to the pattern of spasticity. The total dosage reached 800 U. Baclofen was used orally in a dose of 10 mg 3 times a day. The scales of paresis and spasticity assessment (MRCS, MAS and Tardieu), activity and participation of patients in everyday life (Bartel, Rankin, Rivermead mobility Index, comfortable walking test, LASIS) were used. EMG and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) were performed. M-response, H-reflex, F-wave, central conduction time were determined. The total duration of the study was 120 days. Patients were assessed at 4 points. Potentiation of peripheral and central muscle relaxants and prolongation of the effect of xeomin was revealed (it was expressed in the reduction of the number of injection sessions from 7-8 to 5-6). The use of xeomin in a total dosage of up to 800 U has shown its efficacy and safety for the treatment of spasticity of the upper and lower limbs. The results of EMG and TMS shed a light on the mechanisms of the therapeutic effect of combined (xeomin+baclosan) and monotherapy (xeomin) spasticity.