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Huntington's Disease Treatment

Huntington's disease diagnosis can be a devastating. It is a progressive, degenerative disease in which nerve cells in the brain die off. Huntington's is caused by an abnormal gene that you inherit from a parent. Common symptoms of Huntington's include impaired cognitive abilities, personality changes, balance difficulties, involuntary movements, slurred speech and dementia. There is no cure for Huntington's, however, there are medications that can help lessen the symptoms. You can also try therapy to help you cope, as well as incorporating healthy choices into your lifestyle.

  1. Tetrabenazine

    • Tetrabenazine has been approved by the FDA for treating the symptoms of Huntington's disease. It increases the dopamine in the brain, which can reduce the involuntary movements associated with the condition. However, people with depression or suicidal thoughts should not take tetrabenazine. Additionally, it carries some risk of side effects, such as restlessness, nausea, insomnia and drowsiness.

    Other Medications

    • There are a few other medications that patients can try. Tranquilizers (like clonazepam) may help control the symptoms, such as hallucinations, jerky movements and outbursts. Anti-psychotics like haloperidol and clozapine can also help with this. However, these drugs may cause sedation, stiffness and rigidity. Patients with Huntington's disease often experience depression and obsessive-compulsion behavior. Drugs such as sertraline, fluoxetine and nortriptyline may help with these symptoms. Additionally, patients may discuss the use of lithium to help control mood swings.

    Therapy

    • Huntington's disease can cause speech difficulties. You may decide to try speech therapy. Additionally, if you find that your family, friends or caregivers speak differently around you, you can gently remind them that you still understand your environment and that they should speak normally to you. You may also find that physical therapy can help keep your muscles strong and flexible, reducing the risk of injury by falling. As your disease progresses, occupational therapy can aid you with carrying out everyday routines, such as eating and dressing. You may also choose to meet with a psychologist to help guide you in coming to terms with your illness.

    Lifestyle

    • When you first discover that you have Huntington's disease, you may feel overwhelmed and helpless. It may help you keep up your strength by maintaining as healthy a lifestyle as possible. Exercise on a regular basis; be sure to regulate the intensity according to your ability. Drink plenty of water and other healthy liquids, like vegetable juice or tea. Your disease may make you particularly susceptible to dehydration. Be sure to feed your body adequate amounts of the nutrients it needs. Discuss with your doctor whether you should add supplements or vitamins to your diet.

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