[Drugs for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis].

Riluzole and edaravone for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are currently covered by insurance in Japan. Both have been shown to prolong survival and/or inhibit progression, but neither is a cure-all treatment, and the effects are difficult to realize. The data presented in clinical trials are not applicable to all patients with ALS; the risks and benefits should be explained carefully before use. So far, edaravone has been administered intravenously, but an oral form became available in Japan on April 17, 2023. For symptomatic treatment, morphine hydrochloride and morphine sulfate are insurance-covered alternatives.