Ataxia
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
Ataxia describes poor muscle control that causes clumsy voluntary movements. It may cause difficulty with walking and balance, hand coordination, speech and swallowing, and eye movements.
Signs and symptoms
- Poor coordination
- Walking unsteadily or with the feet set wide apart
- Poor balance
- Difficulty with fine motor tasks, such as eating, writing or buttoning a shirt
- Change in speech
- Involuntary back-and-forth eye movements (nystagmus)
- Difficulty swallowing
Diagnosis
Full blood profileLumbar PunctureGenetic testingMRI
Treatment
Physiotherapy
Speech, language and occupational therapy
Cap. Gabapentin (Gabix) 100mg at night for 4 weeks
Tab. Diazepam (Valium) 5mg OD
Tab. Tizanidine: Initial dose:
- 2 mg orally every 6 to 8 hours as needed
- Peak effects occur in approximately 1 to 2 hours and last for 3 to 6 hours; treatment can be repeated as needed to a maximum of 3 doses in 24 hours; gradually increase dose by 2 to 4 mg at intervals of 1 to 4 days until satisfactory reduction of muscle tone is achieved.
- Maximum single dose: 16 mg
- Maximum daily dose: 36 mg in 24 hours