Treatments

Management of Huntington’s disease involves a multidisciplinary approach. There are currently no treatments specifically designed for Huntington’s but there are many medications that can improve individual symptoms such as medications that improve chorea (the abnormal movements), depression and psychosis as well as memory impairment. There are also several drugs in study that may be specifically helpful for the treatment of Huntington’s.

Medical Treatments

Medications most frequently used in the management of Huntington’s include medications that block the dopamine in the brain, a chemical in the brain (neurotransmitter) that is associated with some of the excessive movements and behavioral abnormalities. Examples include risperidone, olanzapine and haloperidol. Medications that can improve memory and help with depression are also commonly utilized.

Surgical Treatments

For severe cases of chorea (excessive movements), Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) can be an effective treatment.

Last Update

December 5, 2011
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