Minocycline in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a pilot study

Recent studies indicate that minocycline exerts neuroprotective effects in vitro and in vivo, and suggest that the drug may represent a novel therapeutic approach to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In this study we investigated the safety of combined treatment with minocycline and riluzole in ALS. Twenty ALS patients were randomised into two groups and administered either riluzole (50 mg b.i.d.) or riluzole and minocycline (100 mg i.d.) for 6 months. Disease progression was measured by means of the ALS-Functional Rating Scale score at monthly intervals. Respiratory function was measured at the beginning of the study and repeated after 3 and 6 months of treatment. Combined treatment with minocycline and riluzole was not followed by significant side effects. This pilot study shows that minocycline and riluzole can be taken safely together. Further trials are needed to assess efficacy of such treatment.