Gabapentin in the treatment of hemifacial spasm

Objectives– To evaluate the efficacy of gabapentin in the treatment of hemifacial spasm. Material and methods– Twenty-three patients with hemifacial spasm not suitable for surgery or therapy with botulinum toxin were treated with gabapentin. The main efficacy parameter was the percentage of spasm reduction. Results– A clinically significant reduction of spasms was obtained by 16 patients. Conclusion– Gabapentin was effective and safe in reducing hemifacial spasm in 16 out 23 (69.6%) patients.