Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS/Lou Gehrig disease) Flashcards
Drugs used for ALS - 3 drugs
Baclofen
Gabapentin
Riluzole
Baclofen - MOA
Activate GABAb receptor and reduce motor neuron excitability
Which drug is used to reduce spasticity in ALS and MS?
Baclofen
Baclofen - adm
Oral, injectable, intrathecal infusion.
Baclofen - adverse effects
Dizziness, fatigue, weakness
Which drug may slow the loss of muscle strength in ALS?
Gabapentin
Which drug may slow progression of disease and prolong life in ALS?
Riluzole
Gabapentin - adverse effects
Ataxia, dizziness, drowsiness, nystagmus, tremor
Gabapentin - interactions
Antacids decrease levels
Riluzole - MOA
Protect motor neurons from the neurotoxic effects of excitatory amino acids, and prevent anoxia-related death of cortical neurons. Unclear mechanism, maybe inhibition of voltage-gated sodium channels that mediate glutamate release
Riluzole - adverse effects
Asthenia, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, increased hepatic enzyme levels, nausea, vomiting, paresthesias, vertigo
Riluzole - interactions
Quinolones and theophylline can increase serum levels.
Omeprazole, rifampin and smoking can decrease serum levels.