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“Background”: Therapy of low dose levodopa (LDT) was proposed by Prof. Segawato ameliorate postsynaptic supersensitivity of dopamine neuron receptors indevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and Rettsyndrome (RS). “Objectives”: We aimed to examine the current state of LDT inJapan. “Methods”: Research Groupof LDT performed a questionnaire survey online in Japan in 2013. “Results”: Responseswere given from 51 child neurologists, 25(49%) of which tried LDT. Answers were divided into the following 4 groups accordingto number of patients: a, less than 5; b, 5-9; c, 10-19; d, more than 20. LDT was performed inASD (a.9, b.4, c.4, d.2), RS (a.7, b.1, c.0, d.1), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (a.4, b.0, c.2, d.1), mental retardation (a.5, b.1, c.0,d.1), and tics (a.10, b.1, c.1, d.2), respectively. LDT was doneto improve hyperactivity, panic state, speech delay, obsessions, and sleepdisorders, in addition to tics and dystonia. Dose of levodopa in most patients rangedfrom 0.5 mg/kg to 0.9 mg/kg, and 46% of prescribers used 0.5mg/kg. The age in 70% of patients was under 10 years. Short-term and long-term effect, in additionto worsening, were found for each symptom. Concomitant drugs included methylphenidate, atomoxetine, risperidone, aripiprazole and antidepressant. Supposed adverse events, hyperactivity, insomnia and involuntary movement, wereobserved in a few patients. “Discussion”: The data suggestedthe possible effectiveness of LTD in developmental disorders in Japan. Prospective clinical study and animal experiments will give us a hint to determinethe exact mechanisms of LTD.

low dose levodopa;developmental disorders ;questionnaire survey