Medications to be Avoided in Children
with Opsoclonus-Myoclonus

All Narcotics: Demerol, Morphine, Codeine, Fentanyl, Dilaudid

Sedatives/Tranquilizers: Chloral hydrate, Nembutal, Benadryl, Haldol, Thorazine

*Over-the-counter preparations: all "cold" (upper respiratory infection) remedies containing antihistamines
These medications have caused adverse reactions in children with OMS. They may cause the child to become hyperactive instead of sedated, manifest severe behavior problems, or to relapse for one to several days. Larger than normal doses are required, which may put the child at risk for complications.

Other: Ketamine hydrochloride (used for inducing anesthesia for procedures), Dilantin (an anticonvulsant that is toxic to the cerebellum), Tegretol, Trileptal, or Lamictal (anticonvulsants that can make myoclonus worse).

*WARNING: If your child is on ACTH or steroids (prednisone, methylprednisolone): Do not give over-the-counter cold remedies. Anything containing pseudoephedrine or antihistamines can raise blood pressure and cause a hypertensive crisis. Children on ACTH or steroids are at increased risk.