Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a progressive nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, causing loss of muscle control.
Signs and Symptoms
- Difficulty walking or doing normal daily activities
- Tripping and falling
- Weakness in your legs, feet or ankles
- Hand weakness or clumsiness
- Slurred speech or trouble swallowing
- Muscle cramps and twitching in your arms, shoulders and tongue
- Inappropriate crying, laughing or yawning
- Cognitive and behavioral changes
Investigations
Electromyogram (EMG)
Nerve conduction study
MRI
Blood and urine tests
Spinal tap (lumbar puncture)
Muscle biopsy
Treatment
- Tab. Riluzole (Rilutek) 50 mg orally two times a day.
- Tab. Edaravone (Radicava)
Initial cycle
60 mg injection once a day for 14 days, followed by a drug-free period of 14 days.
Subsequent cycles
60 mg injection once a day for 10 days within a 14-day period, followed by a drug-free period of 14 days
3. Pregabalin (lyrica) 100mg at night for 1 month