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REM Sleep Behavior Disorder Medications
Medications
Clonazepam (Klonopin) is highly effective in the treatment of REM sleep
behavior disorder (RBD), relieving symptoms in nearly 90% of patients with
little evidence of tolerance or abuse. The response usually begins within the
first week, often on the first night. The initial dose is 0.5 mg at bedtime,
with some persons requiring a rapid increase to 1 mg. With continued treatment
for years, moderate limb twitching with sleep talking and more complex
behaviors can reemerge. The treatment should be continued indefinitely, as
violent behaviors and nightmares promptly recur with discontinuation of
medications in almost all persons with RBD.
Other medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants, may be effective in some persons with RBD. However, tricyclics are also known to precipitate RBD in some patients.
WebMD Medical Reference from eMedicineHealth
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