Oral Pharmacologic Management of Spasticity in Adults With Neurologic Disorders: A Scoping Review Protocol

Abstract (English)

Introduction/Background

Spasticity occurs in a variety of central nervous system (CNS) disorders and may contribute to impaired mobility, pain, difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs) and positioning, and reduced quality of life. Oral pharmacologic agents are commonly used in the management of spasticity. However, the evidence supporting these medications varies across neurologic populations, dosing regimens, treatment durations, and clinical outcomes.

Objective

The objective of this scoping review is to characterize the available evidence regarding oral pharmacologic treatments used to manage spasticity in adults with neurologic disorders.

Methods and Analysis

Primary studies evaluating oral pharmacologic treatment of spasticity in adults with acquired neurologic disorders will be included. Following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology, MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL will be searched. Two reviewers will independently screen studies, and data will be charted and descriptively summarized by medication, neurologic population, dosing, outcomes, and adverse effects.