Treatment efficacy of theophylline in ADCY5-related dyskinesia : a retrospective case series study

Abstract

ADCY5-related dyskinesia is a rare disorder caused by mutations in the ADCY5 gene resulting in abnormal involuntary movements. Currently, there are no standardized guidelines to treat this condition. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of theophylline administration in improving symptoms and quality of life in patients with ADCY5-related dyskinesia. A retrospective study was conducted involving 12 patients (aged 2–41 years) with ADCY5-related dyskinesia. Participants completed a questionnaire about theophylline administration, including dosage, improvement of symptoms, adverse effects, and changes in quality of life. Data were analyzed for reported efficacy and side effects. Theophylline administration demonstrated substantial efficacy, with 92% (11 of 12) of patients reporting significant improvements in their movement disorders. The average improvement score was 7.0 ± 1.9 (mean ± SD) on a 10-point scale. Notable improvements included reductions in severity and frequency of episodes, improved gait, more independent mobility, psychosocial well-being, and quality of sleep. Adverse effects were reported by 6 patients, including dystonia, worsening of speech, headaches, nausea, impaired sleep, and agitation. Theophylline shows substantial promise as a treatment option for ADCY5-related dyskinesia, improving various aspects of patients' quality of life and movement disorder symptoms. Further research is needed to optimize dosing, to understand long-term effects, and to explore combinational drug therapies. Despite the small cohort size and the retrospective nature of this study, the results support theophylline administration to decrease dyskinetic movements and enhance overall quality of life in patients. © 2025 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.