Cerebral palsy can impact numerous bodily functions, including movement, speech, coordination, eating, and development. Children born with these conditions need assistance throughout their lives to mitigate symptoms. Along with other treatments, medication can be beneficial for people experiencing the effects of cerebral palsy.
The effects of cerebral palsy are widespread, which means that treatment must be comprehensive to have a positive impact on symptoms. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy are often beneficial, and surgery is sometimes required to correct issues with muscle tissue and nerves.
Medications also play a major role in the treatment of cerebral palsy, and the following drugs can be helpful for managing symptoms:
Botox is often associated with cosmetic treatments, but it also offers numerous therapeutic benefits. Botox injections can be used on restricted muscles and nerves to reduce stiffness and improve movement. For people who experience drooling, Botox can be injected into the salivary glands.
Stiff muscles can also be treated with muscle relaxing medications, including diazepam, baclofen, dantrolene, and tizanidine. These medications can carry certain risks, including dependency issues, so it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking them.
People with a risk of seizures due to cerebral palsy may be provided with anti-seizure medication to manage their symptoms. If mental health issues occur, antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can be beneficial. Doctors can also prescribe medications to address the effects of heart disease, lung dysfunction, and pain. Because the effects of cerebral palsy can be different for everyone, doctors must approach each patient on an individual basis.