The effect of L 5 hydroxytryptophan on self mutilation in Lesch Nyhan disease: a negative report

The effect of L 5 hydroxytryptophan on self mutilation in Lesch Nyhan disease: a negative report

Anderson L T; Herrmann L; Dancis J

Neuropadiatrie

1976

automutilation; self-mutilation; child; clinical study; clinical trial; controlled study; drug therapy; human; Lesch Nyhan syndrome; major clinical study; therapy; L-5-hydroxyl-tryptophan; carbidopa; placebo; pharmacologic intervention; behavioral problems

Four patients with Lesch Nyhan disease were treated with L 5 hydroxytryptophan, alone, or in combination with carbidopa, and their effect on self mutilatory behavior was compared to that observed during periods in which placebo was administered. Observation periods were carefully standardized because of the ease with which patient observer interactions can influence the behavior of the Lesch Nyhan patient. The dosage level was sufficient to produce undesirable side effects (diarrhea and vomiting). No effect on self mutilation was observed under test conditions in the hospital or in the natural environment of the home. These results contrast with previous beneficial effects reported by others.

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