Understanding Treatment Options for Huntington’s Disease
Huntington’s disease is a rare, inherited brain disorder that causes the gradual breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It affects a person’s physical movements, thinking abilities and emotions. While there is currently no cure, several treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These treatments include medications, therapies and lifestyle changes. Below are some of the most common treatment options for Huntington’s disease, starting with a medication often used to treat movement-related symptoms.
1. Austedo (Deutetrabenazine)
Austedo is a prescription medication used to treat involuntary movements (called chorea) associated with Huntington’s disease. Chorea can look like twisting, writhing or jerking movements that the person can’t control. This medication works by affecting the way certain brain chemicals, such as dopamine, are processed. This helps reduce the severity and frequency of these movements.
Many people tolerate Austedo well, but some may experience side effects such as drowsiness, diarrhea or depression. Doctors usually start patients on a low dose and gradually increase it to find the best balance between benefit and side effects. It’s important to have regular checkups while on this medication.
2. Tetrabenazine (Xenazine)
Tetrabenazine is another drug used to treat chorea in Huntington’s disease. It works in a similar way to Austedo by lowering dopamine levels in the brain. However, some people find Austedo easier to tolerate, as it may cause fewer side effects. Tetrabenazine has been used longer than Austedo and may be preferred in certain cases.
Because both drugs affect brain chemistry, they can sometimes lead to side effects like drowsiness, restlessness or mood changes. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is key when using these medications.
3. Antipsychotic Medications
Some antipsychotic drugs, such as risperidone (Risperdal) or olanzapine (Zyprexa), are sometimes used to treat chorea or emotional symptoms like aggression, irritability or hallucinations. While these medications aren’t specifically approved for Huntington’s disease, they can be helpful in managing some of its symptoms.
These drugs may also help with sleep problems or anxiety. However, they can cause side effects like weight gain, drowsiness and changes in metabolism, so doctors prescribe them carefully.
4. Antidepressants and Mood Stabilizers
People with Huntington’s disease often struggle with depression, anxiety or mood swings. Medications such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)—like fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft)—can help manage depression and anxiety. Mood stabilizers such as valproate or carbamazepine may be used if mood changes are more extreme or involve irritability and aggression.
These medications do not affect the movement symptoms of Huntington’s but can significantly improve emotional well-being and daily functioning.
5. Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy
In addition to medication, many people benefit from working with therapists:
- Physical therapy can help maintain balance, coordination and strength, which is especially important as the disease progresses.
- Occupational therapy focuses on making daily tasks easier, such as dressing, bathing and eating. Therapists may suggest helpful tools or home adjustments.
- Speech therapy can assist with speaking clearly and safely swallowing food, both of which can become difficult over time.
Therapy helps people maintain independence and improves quality of life.
6. Nutritional Support
Weight loss is common in Huntington’s disease, partly due to movement issues and difficulty eating. A nutritionist can help create high-calorie, easy-to-eat meal plans that meet a person’s needs. In later stages, some people may need feeding tubes if they can no longer swallow safely.
Eating well can help maintain energy, strength and overall health.
7. Mental Health Counseling and Support Groups
Living with Huntington’s disease can be emotionally difficult for both patients and families. Talking to a counselor or psychologist can help with coping strategies, grief and stress management. Joining support groups, either in-person or online, allows people to connect with others going through similar experiences.
8. Experimental and Future Treatments
Scientists are researching new treatments, including gene therapies and medications aimed at slowing the progression of the disease rather than just treating symptoms. Some people with Huntington’s choose to participate in clinical trials to help advance this research.
While these are not yet widely available, they offer hope for the future.
Final Thoughts
Huntington’s disease is a complex condition, but many treatment options are available to help manage its symptoms. Medications like Austedo can reduce involuntary movements, while therapy and emotional support improve daily living. A team approach including doctors, therapists, caregivers and family can make a big difference in helping someone live as fully and comfortably as possible.
If you or a loved one has Huntington’s disease, talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment plan for your unique needs.