Abstract

We present an interesting case of recurrent dystonic crises in dopa-responsive dystonia (DRD) likely induced by excessive consumption of aspartame-containing products, in particular sugar-free energy drinks. This has a strong practical value as acute presentations to the emergency department can be avoided in these susceptible individuals. Usual medical and dietary advice in the treatment of DRD would include the avoidance of high-dose phenylalanine-containing products, and to this we would advocate the avoidance of high-dose aspartame-containing products.