According to the ALS Association, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative illness that damages nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Motor neurons originate in the brain and go to the spinal cord, where they are distributed to muscles all throughout the body. These motor neurons are in charge of muscle control and voluntary muscular action.
Motor neurons deteriorate or die over time in ALS, and as a result, the brain’s capacity to send instructions to the muscles via the spinal cord diminishes until it finally quits. Muscles become weak and twitch when they cease receiving impulses. They atrophy, or fade away, over time. Speaking, chewing, jogging, writing, exercising, and most other tasks that require movement rely on voluntary muscular activity.
ALS is divided into two types:
Sporadic is the most frequent form, accounting for 90 percent to 95 percent of all cases. It may strike anybody, at anytime, anywhere.
5 to 10% of all instances of ALS are caused by a family member. This personality trait is inherited. People with this kind have a 50 percent probability of producing a kid with the disease-causing gene mutation.
A third form, known as litigious-bodega, is found on the island of Guam. When people are in their 40s and 50s, they begin to experience symptoms. Shaking and loss of coordination, which are common in Parkinson’s disease, emerges as the disease advances, generally when patients are in their 60s. Finally, dementia-related cognitive impairments arise.
Medication for ALS
Tiglutik and Rilutek (riluzole) belong to the benzothiazole class of drugs. This medication works by changing the activity of certain natural substances in the body that impact nerves and muscles, therefore delaying the progression of the illness and increasing the likelihood of life by up to 12 months in some cases. A study published in 2018 found that, during the early stages of the illness, this medication does, on occasion, result in improvements in bulbar and limb function. The exact cause of these improvements is not understood at this time. It may also help patients live longer lives if they are diagnosed with the condition later in life.
Radicava (edaravone injection) belongs to the antioxidant class of drugs. It may be effective in slowing the progression of nerve degeneration associated with ALS symptoms. This medication may only be administered by a medical professional and must be administered intravenously.
Nuedexta (dextromethorphan HBr and quinidine sulfate), a third medicine, belongs to the antiarrhythmic drug class. It does not alleviate the muscle symptoms of ALS, but it can assist with the pseudobulbar affect, which is marked by sudden and frequent outbursts of tears or laughing at those who have the illness, according to the researchers.
What is the most frequent ALS drug adverse effects?
Tiglutik and Rilutek have the following side effects:
- Dizziness
- Mouth is parched
- Disruptions in sleep
- Drowsiness
- A heart rate that is quite fast
Radicava has the following side effects:
- Easy to bruise
- Walking is difficult.
- Headache
- Rash
The following are some of the Nuedexta side effects:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- stomach aches due to gas
- Mouth is parched
- Spasms of the muscles
- Urination that is difficult or unpleasant
- This is not an exhaustive list of possible negative effects. To learn more about each drug, speak with your healthcare practitioner or pharmacist.
ALS Treatment Protocol 