Huntington's Disease

Treatment

Although the disease's progression cannot be stopped or reversed, therapies and support can partially alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatments include medication, mental health care, and speech, swallowing and physical therapies.

Medication

No medications are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat the symptoms of HD. However, some medications approved to treat other conditions have worked for some patients.

Many drugs are being studied to determine if they slow the progression of HD, but currently no drug has been recommended.

To decrease chorea, doctors may prescribe tranquilizers such as dopamine antagonists, dopamine depletors or clonazepam. These drugs, however, can have side effects (such as worse balance, more difficulty swallowing, and exacerbation of depression) that must be weighed against their benefits.

SSRIs (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors) antidepressants, mood stabilizers or neuroleptics may also be prescribed in coordination with psychiatric counseling to address psychological problems.

Mental Health Care

The depression rate among people with HD is very high and can be caused by the disease or the challenges it creates. The risk for suicide is higher than in the general population and should be openly assessed.

Other Therapies

Speech therapy can help patients better retain their communication abilities and specialists in swallowing can help prevent choking. Others who spend time with the patient should also be trained in the Heimlich maneuver.

Physical therapy can help improve strength and gait and decrease the frequency or seriousness of falls.

Family Support

Family members of people with HD will also need help in coping with the stresses of the disease. Mayo Clinic offers various resources, education and information, and will also help patients and families connect with HD support groups.

Legal and social aid, home care services, recreation and work centers, group housing and institutional care are outside resources patients and their families may need to consider.