Why is ACTH given in West syndrome?

Neurodegeneration may be due to imbalance between nerve growth factors and nitrate/nitrite in the brain. ACTH should be used as the first choice for treatment of West syndrome (at the minimal effective dose and for shortest effective time).

Why does ACTH work in infantile spasms?

ACTH stimulates part of the brain to release other hormones. In infantile spasms, the ACTH is injected into a muscle with an IV needle. Moderate evidence shows short-term use of ACTH may help treat infantile spasms. Moderate evidence shows that a low dose of ACTH can be as effective as higher doses.

How does Sabril work?

Brain cells need to work (fire) at a certain rate to function normally. During a seizure, brain cells are forced to work much more rapidly than normal. Sabril makes chemical changes in the brain that slow down brain cell firing during a seizure.

What is ACTH treatment?

ACTH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. This medicine is injected into the thigh muscle to reduce infantile spasms. Infantile spasms (IS) is a type of epilepsy that usually occurs in babies and is often associated with development problems.

What causes infantile spasms or West syndrome?

Changes in your child’s genes

What is West syndrome?

West syndrome is a rare disorder that causes epilepsy in infants. West syndrome may develop as a result of a brain defect or injury that occurs prenatally.

Is West syndrome genetic?

The most common disorder responsible for West syndrome is tuberous sclerosis complex. ( TSC ). TSC is an autosomal dominant genetic condition associated with seizures, eye, heart and kidney tumors and skin findings.