Intrathecal thyrotropin-releasing hormone in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) has potential therapeutic applications in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and related diseases because of its function as a neuroregulator of the anterior horn cell. However, its therapeutic potential, and that of other neuropeptides, is reduced by the blood-brain barrier that limits access to neuronal cells. We have thus explored the direct intrathecal administration of TRH in ALS, with both short-term boluses and infusions and chronic constant infusions. Our experience suggests that this approach is safe, has high patient acceptance, and is worthy of more careful evaluation.
D000690:Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / Q000134:cerebrospinal fluid / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004341:Drug Evaluation; D006801:Humans; D007260:Infusion Pumps; D007278:Injections, Spinal; D007700:Kinetics; D013973:Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000378:metabolism; D013997:Time Factors
D013973:Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone