New drug approved for MND sufferers

A new drug designed to regulate the uncontrollable laughter and crying seen in those with motor neurone disease (MND) has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the US.

The treatment, known as nuedexta has been found to significantly improve the symptoms of those with MND, who may use assisted living or home care.

Nuedexta could eliminate the embarrassment and social isolation experienced by some sufferers of MND who experience involuntary outbursts of laughter or crying in response to events that are not funny or sad.

The Motor Neurone Disease Association reports Randall Kaye, chief medical officer of Avanir Pharmaceuticals, as saying: "Patients with these symptoms may feel extremely isolated and so this treatment is a huge step forward as it’s the first time that there has been a treatment which has been extensively tested for safety and efficacy."

MND is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks motor neurones, causing wasting of muscles and difficulties with speech, swallowing and breathing.

Find the nearest Barchester nursing home.