Available Treatments

Currently, there is no medication available to stop or cure ALS. One medication, Rilutek, has been approved by the FDA and has been proven to modestly increase survival. For more information, contact your physician or neurologist or the drug manufacturer, Aventis S.A. at The Drug Information Center at (800) 340-7502.

While there are no medications to cure ALS, there are many medicines and/or treatments designed to address the many symptoms of ALS. Used appropriately and early on, there is growing evidence that demonstrates that not only is a higher quality of life possible for those who use the prescribed treatments, but often life can be extended.

For example, at a Certified ALS Center or an ALS clinic, specialists would prescribe treatments and medications for

• mobility

• nutrition

• breathing

• speaking

• excess saliva

• muscle cramps/spasm

• thick phlegm (mucus)

• pain

• nasal congestion

• post-nasal drip

• depression/anxiety

• excessive crying or laughter

• sleep disturbance

• constipation

• urinary urgency

• gastric reflux

• lanryngospasm

• jaw quivering/clenching

• nausea