Riluzole for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)/motor neuron disease (MND)
Abstract Background Riluzole is approved for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in most countries. Questions persist about its clinical utility because of high cost and modest efficacy. Objectives To examine the efficacy of riluzole in prolonging survival and in delaying the use of surrogates (tracheostomy and mechanical ventilation) to sustain survival, and to assess […]
Treatment for spasticity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease
Abstract Background Spasticity commonly affects patients with motor neuron disease. It is likely to contribute to worsening muscle dysfunction, increased difficulty with activities of daily living and deteriorating quality of life. This is an update of a review first published in 2003 and previously updated in 2005 and 2008. Objectives The objective of this review […]
Multidisciplinary care for adults with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or motor neuron disease
Abstract Background Multidisciplinary care (MDC) is increasingly thought to be an important means of symptomatic and supportive management for motor neuron disease (MND) but the evidence base for its effectiveness is unclear. This is the first update of a review first published in 2009. Objectives To assess the effectiveness of MDC in adults with MND, […]
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or motor neuron disease
Abstract Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as motor neuron disease, is a fatal neuromuscular disease characterized by progressive muscle weakness resulting in paralysis. It might be treated with ciliary neurotrophic factor. This is an updated review. An updated search was performed in April 2011, but no new studies were found. Objectives The objective of […]
Treatment for postpolio syndrome
Abstract Background Postpolio syndrome (PPS) may affect survivors of paralytic poliomyelitis and is characterised by a complex of neuromuscular symptoms leading to a decline in physical functioning. The effectiveness of pharmacological treatment and rehabilitation management in PPS is not yet established. Objectives To review systematically the effects of any treatment for PPS compared to placebo, […]
Enteral tube feeding for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease
Abstract Background Enteral feeding (tube feeding) is offered to many people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease experiencing difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and maintaining adequate nutritional intake leading to weight loss. Objectives To examine the efficacy of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy placement or other tube feeding placement on: (1) survival; (2) nutritional status; (3) quality of life; […]
Treatment for familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease
Abstract Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease (MND), is a rare neurodegenerative disease. Approximately 5% to 7% of ALS/MND patients report a family history of a similarly affected relative. Superoxide dismutase-1 gene mutations are the cause in about 20% of familial cases. In those with non-familial (sporadic) ALS/MND the cause […]
Antioxidant treatment for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or motor neuron disease
Abstract Background Free radical accumulation and oxidative stress have been proposed as contributing to the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (or motor neuron disease). A range of antioxidant medications have been studied. This is an updated review. Objectives To examine the effects of antioxidant medication in the treatment of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Search […]