Beta blockers

[Lizzie]

I wonder if anyone knows anything about the use of beta blockers for troublesome thick secretions. I spotted something online about a trial that was being planned but I’ve been unable to find anything further. Has anyone heard anything more about this. Thanks. Love, Lizzie x

[Ellie]

I don't know anything about an upcoming clinical trial Lizzie but it's been on the cards for a long time since a very small trial showed good results in (I think) 1996. Is this upcoming trial in the UK?

Beta blockers are a known, if unproven, medication for managing thick secretions in MND and is referred to in the MNDA's guide for HCPs for managing secretions (IDK if this is an 'off label' use, or not) xx

[John D]

My local neuro consultant prescribed repurposed propranolol beta blockers at the outset but I didn’t take them as not keen on beta blockers since they have other effects. He repeated his recommendation recently but my King’s palliative consultant is very much against them. I’m relying on one Hyoscine patch per day and removing it at night which means a big repeat prescription. Use prescribed Biotene gel at night to mitigate dry mouth. Not a perfect solution but good enough at the moment, Now considering Botox.

[Lizzie]

Thanks for your replies Ellie and John D. I’ve managed to trace the trial to Ottawa University, and you were right Ellie , it was 1996. There appears to be no clue as to what happened next, if anything. My husband, Chris has emailed the medical research dept to ask for a bit more info. If we get a reply I’ll post it on here. Lizzie x