Has anybody heard of the drug verenicline (Chantix) used for treating ataxia?

[halle]

[SueMillman Partner Ataxia UK]

Hi Halle

Yes. This is a drug normally given to help people stop smoking. However, a neurologist in the US saw that it was having positive effects on people with some neurological conditions and a trial was started to see if it could be used in a systematic way to treat FA. However, the side effects were so profound that the trial was abandoned!

Hope this is helpful. Sue

[february]

Yes, there's been clinical trials for Chantix (verinicline) for the treatment of spinocerebellar ataxia type 3. Apparently, there's been some success with this drug, but I'm sorry, I don't know details. You could try to Google "chantiix and ataxia, as I'm sure you'll find more information. ;o)

[scruffycat]

interesting. If only I could get a diagnosis

[bevvick1964]

I’ve been following a study in the USA of a drug called Trigriluzole for SCA6. They’ve been given FDA approval after positive results and will be presenting their results in a few months.

My neurologist is very excited about it