Experimental Drugs for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Other Forms of Experimental Drugs
Ampligen: it is an artificially synthesized nucleic acid product, known to influence the production of interferons, a class of compounds that modify the immune response of an individual. Although clinical trials done among CFS patients have recorded slight improvement in performance and cognitive ability, the drug has not yet been approved by the FDA for treatment of CFS, owing to limited information available on the safety and efficacy parameters.
Corticosteriods: Based on the fact that some CFS patients have slightly decreased cortisol levels in their urine, possibility of using corticosteroids for CFS treatment has been suggested. This work is however in the experimental phase. Results of the study conducted so far have shown that the beneficial effect may only be temporary, not lasting more than a month.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): There are relatively few reports that highlight hormonal changes associated with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and insulin-like growth factor may lead to CFS. In view of the above possibility, the use of these agents to manage CFS has been suggested. Although some studies have documented a moderate level of symptomatic relief following low dose administration of DHEA, the use of DHEA as a treatment of CFS is still controversial. Additionally, researchers have warned about the use of DHEA in CFS patients with abnormal levels of DHEA and function.
Neurosurgery: It has been hypothesized that certain malformations at the base of the skull can contribute to CFS. Some unpublished reports have suggested nerurosurgery to correct the malformation and reverse CFS. Currently, no form of neurosurgery has been recommended to treat CFS.
