Progressive Supranuclear Palsy

Treatment

Progressive supranuclear palsy has no known cure, though some medications may temporarily control some of the slowness and balance problems.

Speech, vision and swallowing difficulties usually do not respond to drug treatment, though artificial tears may help prevent the eyes from drying out due to decreased blinking. Botulinum toxin injections can sometimes curb involuntary eyelid closure.

In some patients, antidepressant medications are helpful.

Nondrug treatments include special glasses and weighted walking aids that prevent backward falls. A speech therapist can help with swallowing problems and offer alternative communication devices, and an occupational therapist can advise on safety and comfort issues.

Patients with progressive supranuclear palsy eventually require around-the-clock care due to progressive loss of brain functions.