Many Medications for Adults with Cerebral Palsy May Miss the Mark, Study Finds.

Adults living with cerebral palsy (CP) are frequently prescribed medications that may not be suitable for the specific types of pain or symptoms they experience, according to new research from the University of Michigan Health. The study highlights a concerning trend in the management of pain among this population, where medications are often used as a one-size-fits-all approach, rather than targeting the root causes of discomfort.

Professor Mark Peterson, Ph.D., M.S., FACSM, a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation, led the investigation into common pharmaceutical treatments for adults with CP. His research examined the prescribing patterns for both pain and other symptom management, taking into account variations in pain types and the presence of co-occurring neurodevelopmental disorders.

Peterson and his team analyzed data on medication and therapy prescriptions and found several frequently used treatments. Among these, muscle relaxants and non-operative opioids were the most commonly prescribed. Alarmingly, individuals with mixed pain phenotypes were disproportionately affected—60% received muscle relaxants, while 80% were prescribed opioids.

“These findings raise serious concerns,” said Peterson. “When pain type isn’t properly identified, patients may end up using medications that not only fail to treat the problem effectively but could also increase their risk for complications.”

The study emphasizes the need for improved screening methods to accurately determine the nature and extent of pain experienced by adults with CP. Peterson warns that improper use of opioids, in particular, can have significant consequences, especially given the high rates of comorbid conditions in this population, such as respiratory and psychiatric disorders, bowel issues, and fall-related injuries.

In response to these findings, Peterson's team has developed a set of recommendations aimed at improving pain management strategies for adults with cerebral palsy. These guidelines are part of a broader international effort to establish the first-ever clinical practice standards tailored specifically to this adult population.

As the research continues, the goal remains clear: to ensure that adults with cerebral palsy receive personalized, effective, and safe treatment plans that truly address their individual needs.

Source: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250417145117.html

This is non-financial/medical advice and made using AI so could be wrong.