Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis is rare, and more medicines are being studied for it now than at any time before.
What research in this area looks at
Myasthenia gravis, or MG, is an autoimmune condition in which antibodies block the signal from nerves to muscles. Muscles tire with use and recover with rest. Drooping eyelids and double vision are common, and some people have trouble swallowing, speaking or breathing.
Trials test medicines that lower the harmful antibodies, block the part of the immune system that damages the muscle signal, or reset the immune response. Many are open to people whose MG is not well controlled on current treatment.
Kinds of study you will come across
Listings in this area usually fall into one of these. A single study can sit in more than one.
Antibody-lowering medicine
Reduce the antibodies that interfere with the muscle signal.
Complement blockers
Block one part of the immune response that damages nerve endings.
Eye-only MG
Focus on people whose weakness affects only the eyes and eyelids.
Long-term extensions
Let people continue a study medicine and track how they do.
What visits can include
- Muscle strength scores, such as how long you can hold an arm up
- Questions about swallowing, speaking, breathing and vision
- Infusions or injections, often weekly at first
- Blood tests for antibody levels
- Vaccinations before starting some medicines
What to have ready before you call
- Your antibody test results, if you know them
- The MG medicines you take now and at what doses
- Whether you have had your thymus removed
- Any hospital stays for MG in the last year or two
Questions worth asking a study team
Write them down before the first call. The team has heard each one many times and expects them.
Can I keep taking my current MG medicines?
What do I do if my weakness gets worse during the study?
Do I need vaccinations before I start?
How often are infusions, and how long does each one take?
Only the study team can say whether a study would take you. Talk to your own doctor before deciding. In an emergency, call 911.
Stay updated on myasthenia gravis research
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