Case study: Amantadine: a potential treatment for the minimally conscious state

Abstract

Pharmacologic strategies have been advocated to enhance the neurorehabilitation of persons with severe traumatic brain injury. Dopaminergic pathways have been felt to play a significant role in arousal. Employing single case design methodology we present the case of a survivor of severe traumatic brain injury who appeared to have a dose dependent response to the pro dopaminergic medication amantadine. Further research is necessary to clarify the role of pharmacotherapy in the improvement of functional outcome.