ALS Research: An Overview

Research into diseases of the nervous system has not been as popular as research for heart disease or cancer. However since the 1960s, numerous scientific papers were published on the possible causes, diagnosis, and treatment of ALS. So far, Rilutek © is the only drug, which has been approved as a result of this research.

Medication and Treatment For ALS: An Overview

There is no known cure for ALS. The medication and treatment prescribed for this disease centers on prolonging the duration and quality of life for ALS patients. There are numerous drugs and supportive therapies such as speech pathology or occupational therapy, prescribed to help ALS patients cope with the different symptoms they will experience. A Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drug called Rilutek © has been shown to prolong the survival rate by an average of three months. Rilutek © is used to slow down the loss of muscle strength, and is more effective in bulbar-onset ALS.

Blood Tests For ALS

Blood tests for people suspected of having ALS are routine laboratory tests. Usually ALS patients will not show any abnormalities within their blood, but blood tests are conducted to show that no other disease is present that is being mistaken for ALS.

For example, a blood test will be able to check your blood cell count, hormone levels, as well as liver and kidney function to detect if any infections are present.

Participating In ALS Research

For anyone diagnosed with ALS, and who would like to participate in ALS research, it is recommended asking your neurologist about the benefits and safety associated with enrolling in a particular clinical research trial.

By enrolling in clinical research trials, people suffering from ALS will be able to help in the process of finding a cure for their disease, and the people who will later be diagnosed.

Another added benefit of participating in ALS research is the ability to be able to test new drugs beforehand with a ‘front seat' to potential new treatment. So ask your neurologist about participating, before you discard or accept any experimental medication.