MND Research & Treatment

There is, as yet, no cure for motor neurone disease, but that is not the whole story. Treatments can slow its progress for some people and ease its symptoms, specialist care can meaningfully improve both quality and length of life, and research is moving faster now than ever before. This page is general information, not medical advice; treatment decisions should always be made with a specialist medical team.

Treatments that exist today

A small number of drugs are licensed for MND. Riluzole was the first, and is widely used; it offers a modest extension of survival for many patients. Edaravone has been approved in some countries and may slow the decline of function in certain people. More recently, tofersen has been approved for a specific, inherited form of the disease caused by a fault in the SOD1 gene, an early example of a treatment targeted at a known genetic cause.

Just as important as any single drug is multidisciplinary care: a coordinated team of neurologists, nurses, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, dietitians and respiratory specialists. Strong evidence shows that this kind of specialist, joined-up care is one of the most effective things available, helping people live longer and more comfortably by managing breathing, nutrition, mobility and communication as needs change.

Where research is heading

MND research has accelerated dramatically. Scientists have identified several genes involved in the disease, such as SOD1 and C9orf72, which has opened the door to gene-targeted therapies like tofersen and others now in trials. Other active areas include the search for reliable biomarkers to speed up diagnosis and track the disease, stem cell research, and a growing number of clinical trials testing new drugs. The genetic understanding that made the first targeted treatment possible simply did not exist a generation ago.

Hawking's part, and how to help

Hawking's own survival for fifty-five years was exceptional and is still not fully understood, but his fame did lasting good: as a patron of the MND Association he drew attention and funds to exactly this kind of research. Charities like the MND Association fund much of the work described here, which is why a share of any revenue this site earns goes to support it.

If you or someone close to you is affected by MND, the MND Association offers information and support. You can find ways to help on the support page.