Myoclonic Jerks (Periodic Limb Movement Disorder)

These refer to muscular jerks of the legs (in particular), usually beginning in adolescence or early adult life—usually in first hour after waking, esp. after a ‘heavy’ late night.

Treatment

• Clonazepam 0.5–1 mg (ο) nocte, increasing to 3 mg (ο) nocte if nec. or

• Sodium valproate 100 mg (ο) nocte or

• Diazepam 2–5 mg (ο), up to 3 times/d