What is the treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy?
Treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy is aimed at the symptoms. Aggressive management of dilated cardiomyopathy with anti-congestive medications is used, including cardiac transplantation in severe cases. Assistive devices for respiratory complications may be needed, especially at night. The medication prednisone — a steroid — is given to improve the strength and function of individuals with DMD. Prednisone has been shown to prolong the ability to walk by 2 to 5 years. However, the possible side effects of prednisone include weight gain, high blood pressure, behavior changes, and delayed growth. A synthetic form of prednisilone, called Deflazacort, is used in Europe and believed to have fewer side effects than prednisone. A medication called cyclosporine has been used and has improved clinical function in children, but its use is controversial due to cyclosporine-induced myopathy. Oxandrolone, a medication used in a research study, has similar effects to prednisone with fewer side
