Pyridostigmine
Pyridostigmine has a plausible mechanism for transiently enhancing neuromuscular transmission in early stage ALS, where NMJ transmission is impaired but motor neuron numbers are preserved. However, there is no plausible mechanism for slowing ALS progression. Case reports showed PALS without typical MG symptoms did not respond to pyridostigmine. Thus far, clinical trials of pyridostigmine in […]
ISRIB
ISR over-activation may play an important role in ALS pathogenesis, as supported by data from pre-clinical models and PALS. Several different ISR inhibitors have been tried in ALS models or inPALS with mixed results; but given the differents pecific actions of these, it is not possible to generalize across the whole class. ISRIB can attenuate […]
Alpha Lipoic Acid
ALA has several plausible mechanisms for slowing ALS progression, including enhancing energy production, reducing oxidative stress as a potent antioxidant and anti inflammation. Preclinical studies demonstrated better motor function and improved survival. One open label study suggested improved QOL and fatigue when administered as a palladium lipoic acid complex, but motor function was not assessed. […]
Psilocybin
Psilocybin may be able to influence ALS relevant mechanisms including neuroinflammation and brain glutamate levels, but this ability has not yet been demonstrated in ALS models or in PALS.There have been no studies of psilocybin in ALS relevant preclinical models, and no case reports documenting the effects of psilocybin on ALS progression. Given the potential […]
WAHLS Protocol
Because components of the Wahls diet may affect inflammation, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, it has plausible mechanisms for slow-ing ALS. Although a cross sectional study suggests the intake of certain macro and micronutrients enriched in the Wahls diet was associated with better baseline motor function and lower risk for getting ALS, no case reports […]
PoNS Device
Considering the fact that electrical stimulation was first used as a medical treatment more than 100 years ago (30), and first used as an ALS treatment 30 years ago (31), it is disappointing that we have yet to find a clear way to use this to help PALS. PoNS™ is a newer version of this. […]
Ashwagandha
WS appears reasonably safe, has plausible mechanisms by which it might slow ALS progression, and has promising data obtained in multiple different clinical models of ALS. While there are also some interesting self reports from PALS and one verified ALS reversal on a compound containing WS, these must be interpreted with caution because of the […]
Lions Mane
While Lion’s Mane may have neuroprotective, neurotrophic, antioxidant, and anti inflammatory properties that could, at least in theory, potentially help ALS, there are still no studies in ALS relevant cell or animal models, nor in humans with ALS. Therefore, we do not have enough information to support the current use of Lion’s Mane for treating […]