1. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of glycopyrrolate on drool
ing in an adult male patient with cerebral palsy.
2. After a thorough medical examination and consent in writing by the respo
nsible guardian, a baseline sum score for frequency and seriousness of droo
ling was established over a ' peek period in addition to data on shifts of
handkerchiefs, urination, defecation and observation of behaviour. Glycopyr
rolate (1 mg) tablets were then administered, starting with one tablet dail
y the third week and increasing the daily dose by one tablet per week until
a maximum of four tablets during week six and I days of week seven when th
e daily dose was reduced to two tablets for 3 days. For the four weeks 8-11
three tablets were given daily. In week 12 the dose was reduced to two tab
lets and for the weeks 13-15 no tablets of glycopyrrolate were given.
3. For as long as the patient received three to four tablets of glycopyrrol
ate daily, drooling was markedly reduced and handkerchiefs were not necessa
ry on some days. After the tablets were withdrawn drooling increased to app
roximately the same level as it was before treatment. No adverse medical, p
sychological. or social effects were observed.
4. For shorter periods, glycopyrrolate can be given in controlled doses pro
vided that an adequate medical assessment has been undertaken.