Dantrolene Sodium in the Management of Spasticity

Spasticity caused by central nervous system issues can lead to contractures, impacting self-care, gait, and hygiene. Managing severe spasticity with drugs has been challenging, even with 'muscle relaxants'. Dantrolene sodium (Dantrium®) is a skeletal muscle relaxant that acts peripherally. Studies suggest it is more effective than diazepam for treating spasticity. Some patients benefit more from a combination of both drugs. Dantrolene affects muscle relaxation through a new mode of action, having a peripheral effect. It appears to disrupt excitation-contraction by interfering with calcium release in muscle cells.

• 1
  Dantrolene sodium is more effective than diazepam in the treatment of spasticity.
• 2
  Some patients derive greater benefit from dantrolene and diazepam combined than from either drug alone.
• 3
  Dantrolene uncouples excitation-contraction, probably by interfering with or inhibiting calcium release from within the sarcoplasmic reticulum of muscle.