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There is no cure for Huntington's
disease. However, there is a number of measures to slow the progress of
the disease and improve the quality of life of the patient:
- Diet management (Eating difficulties can lead to weight loss)
- Lifestyle changes, such as exercises and occupational therapy.
- Supporting environment, including personal care.
- Assistance of a physical therapist (can help on management of physical
symptoms)
- Medications, which are prescribed according to the causes, signs and symptoms
and include:
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Drug
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Abnormality
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Tetrabenazine, neuroleptics and benzodiazepines
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Abnormal involuntary movements affecting especially the shoulders, hips, and face (chorea)
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Valproic acid
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Hyperkinesia
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Antiparkinsonian drugs
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Hypokinesia
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Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI, such as fluoxetine), tricyclic antidepressants
(like amitriptyline),and other types of antidepressants such as mirtazapine,
duloxetine or venlafaxine
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Depression
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Atypical antipsychotic drugs (AAD)
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Psychosis and behavioral problems.
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