Treatments

Approved Treatments

No disease-modifying treatments have been approved yet for LEMS, but there are medications that can help treat the symptoms of the disease. These include Firdapse (amifampridine), Ruzurgi (amifampridine, also called 3,4-diaminopyridine or 3,4-DAP), and, less commonly, guanidine.

 

Cholinesterase Inhibitors

In LEMS, muscles weaken and atrophy as the immune system attacks the nerve cell endings, weakening nerve signals. Cholinesterase inhibitors block the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, meaning that a stronger, longer-lasting nerve signal can be sent. They are prescribed off-label for LEMS, with pyridostigmine the most commonly used.

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Immunosuppressants

Immunosuppression refers to the suppression of the activity of the immune system, thereby curtailing its ability to fight infection. This can be induced by medications known as immunosuppressants. Immunosuppression can be used in autoimmune diseases such as LEMS to reduce the severity of symptoms.

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Non-Drug Therapies

Several non-drug therapies may also help to alleviate symptoms associated with LEMS and improve patients’ quality of life. These include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

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Other Treatments

Other treatments that can be useful for LEMS patients include IVIG replacement therapy and plasmapheresis. Both procedures are designed to combat the presence of autoantibodies in the blood to ease disease symptoms.

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Your LEMS Community

Visit the Lambert-Eaton News forums to connect with others in the LEMS community. These forums are designed for LEMS patients, caregivers, and medical professionals to discuss issues, ask questions, and share experiences.

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