Treatments for Myasthenia Gravis

Treatment list for Myasthenia Gravis: The list of treatments mentioned in various sources for Myasthenia Gravis includes the following list. Always seek professional medical advice about any treatment or change in treatment plans.

• Medications
  • Neurotransmitter stimulants
  • Anticholinesterase agents
  • Pyridostigmine
  • Immunosuppressants
  • Prednisone
  • Cyclosporine
  • Azathioprine
  • Edrophonium
• Thymectomy
• Plasmapheresis
• High-dose intravenous immunoglobulin
• Lifestyle changes
  • Balanced diet
  • High-potassium diet
  • Avoid overexertion
  • Daily rest periods
  • Resting eyes

Treatments of Myasthenia Gravis discussion: Myasthenia gravis can be controlled. Some medications improve neuromuscular transmission and increase muscle strength, and some suppress the production of abnormal antibodies. These medications must be used with careful medical followup because they may cause major side effects. Thymectomy, the surgical removal of the thymus gland, improves symptoms in certain patients and may cure some individuals. Other therapies include plasmapheresis, a procedure in which abnormal antibodies are removed from the blood, and high-dose intravenous immune globulin, which temporarily modifies the immune system and provides the body with normal antibodies from donated blood . ¹

Today, MG is well-controlled. Therapies include medications such as anticholinesterase agents, prednisone, cyclosporine and azathioprine. Other treatments include thymectomy, the surgical removal of the thymus gland; plasmapheresis, a procedure in which abnormal antibodies are removed from blood plasma; and high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin that modifies the immune system. A physician will determine which treatment option is best for each patient depending on the severity of the weakness, which muscles are affected, and the patient’s age and other associated medical problems.

With treatment, most MG patients will have excellent improvement of their muscle weakness. In some patients, MG, like many other autoimmune diseases, may go into remission and muscle weakness may disappear completely. In a few cases, MG may cause severe weakness resulting in acute respiratory failure; however, most patients can expect to lead normal or nearly normal lives. ²

Plenty of rest and a well balanced, potassium-rich diet can help alleviate fatigue. It is important for persons with MG to avoid overexertion, and if necessary, to rest the eyes or to lie down briefly a few times a day.²

Footnotes:
1. excerpt from NINDS Myasthenia Gravis Information Page: NINDS
2. excerpt from MYASTHENIA GRAVIS: NWHIC

Last revision: June 4, 2003

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