Huntington's Disease

Huntington's Disease

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Treatment

Currently, there is no cure for Huntington's disease and no treatment to slow its progression. However, there are treatments to help control the symptoms. Some medications may help alleviate involuntary movements and may be used to help control hallucinations, delusions and violent outbursts. Anti-psychotic drugs, however, can have severe side effects, including stiffness and sedation, and for that reason are used in the lowest possible doses. Anti-depressants are used for depression and tranquilizers can help with severe mood swings.

Studies are underway to determine if antioxidants and other agents may help protect the brain and therefore prevent degeneration in HD. So far, these studies have not proved to be beneficial.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 8, 2007