From the Research
Nuedexta Uses
- Nuedexta, a combination of dextromethorphan hydrobromide and quinidine sulfate, is primarily used to treat pseudobulbar affect (PBA) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- PBA is a disorder of emotional regulation, characterized by uncontrollable outbursts of laughing and/or crying that are disproportionate to the emotions being experienced 2, 4, 5.
- Nuedexta has been shown to be effective in reducing the severity of PBA in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple sclerosis 2, 5.
- The drug has also been used off-label to improve bulbar function in people with ALS, with or without PBA 1.
- Nuedexta's mechanisms of action, including its effects on sigma-1 receptors and glutamate excitotoxicity, may contribute to its potential benefits in treating PBA and other neurological disorders 1, 2.
Treatment of PBA
- Nuedexta is indicated in the US for the treatment of PBA, and has been shown to be effective in reducing the rate of PBA episodes per day 5.
- The drug has been associated with a significantly greater decrease in the rate of PBA episodes per day compared to placebo in clinical trials 5.
- Nuedexta has been generally well tolerated, although it can cause dosage-dependent corrected QT interval (QTc) prolongation 5.
- The drug may be a viable treatment alternative for PBA, particularly in patients who have not responded to other treatments such as antidepressants 3, 4.