title: [Aminopyridines for symptomatic treatment of multiple sclerosis].
abstract: 3,4-diaminopyridine (DAP) and 4-aminopyridine (AP) block potassium channels and can improve action potentials in demyelinated nerve fibres. We identified ten randomised placebo-controlled trials investigating AP/DAP as symptomatic treatment in multiple sclerosis. There is evidence that AP and DAP improve muscle strength in the lower extremities and that AP increases walking speed, and it might improve Expanded Disability Status Scale scores, spasticity and fatigue. There is a lack of evidence-based guidelines of treatment and studies investigating the effect on participation/activity and quality of life.
authors.affiliation: Neurologisk Afdeling, Odense Universitetshospital, 5000 Odense C, Denmark. henrikboyejensen@yahoo.dk
authors.forename: Henrik Boye
authors.initials: HB
authors.lastname: Jensen
authors.forename: Egon
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Stenager
authors.forename: Mads Henrik
authors.initials: MH
authors.lastname: Ravnborg
mesh_terms: D015761:4-Aminopyridine / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000200:Action Potentials / Q000187:drug effects; D000077770:Amifampridine; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D035002:Lower Extremity / Q000503:physiopathology; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D053580:Muscle Strength / Q000187:drug effects; D026902:Potassium Channel Blockers / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016138:Walking / Q000502:physiology
chemical_list: D026902:Potassium Channel Blockers; D015761:4-Aminopyridine; D000077770:Amifampridine