Medical Health Issues

Health Issue: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Treatment and Care

Unfortunately, there are no treatments to slow or halt the progression of ALS. There are drugs and devices available to help control symptoms and make living with the ALS easier.

ALS Treatment

Rilutek (riluzole) is an approved drug for the treatment of ALS. This drug seems to prevent the damage that can result from the nerve cell being overexcited by glutamate. There are potentially damaging side effects on the liver with this drug.
Physical therapy to slow the muscle deterioration is used in early stages of the disease.

There are medications and supplements available to relieve stiffness in the limbs and throat, slow muscle decline and to slow weight loss and ease cramps. Antidepressants are often prescribed to help with the depression that is often present with this fatal disease.

Scientists and researchers are always looking for new medicines and treatments for ALS and, ultimately, to unlock the cause of the disease to find a cure.

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