Unfortunately, there is still no cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), otherwise known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, which is a neurological disorder that is debilitating and eventually fatal. There is, however, some encouraging news that may allow patients to live several months longer after a diagnosis.

Wichita Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has the details on a two-drug combination that was born from the minds of two college students and is one of the largest breakthroughs in the fight against ALS.

Extension of Life

While extending life by several months may not sound like a lot, most ALS patients die within two to five years of diagnosis, so around six months is a good step in the right direction for a therapeutic.

The two-drug combination is called AMX0035 and works by delaying the destruction of neurons that occur in many degenerative brain disorders. In a study, it found that it slowed the progression of paralysis due to ALS by 25% over those taking a placebo. 

The Product of a Fundraiser

If you recall the ice bucket challenge that swept social media several years ago, it was done to increase awareness of ALS to show people what it was like to feel the effects of the disease when the ice water would temporarily take participants’ breath away. There were 20 different emerging therapies that came from the money raised from that endeavor. 

Next Steps

Another trial may be necessary before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) were able to expedite its review process and grant approval. ALS experts called this a solid single in the fight against this insidious disease, but it could pave the way for future breakthroughs. 

To learn more about Wichita Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://wichita-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org/.