Acute intermittent porphyria
Treatment
Can attacks of acute intermittent porphyria be stopped?
There is no treatment that can fully stop an attack of acute intermittent porphyria or cure it. However, removing any triggers can be very helpful. For example, stopping any medications that triggered the attack, drinking less alcohol, getting more calories, and treating any infections or illnesses can help stop the attack.
References
- Acute Intermittent Porphyria. Gene Reviews. (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1193)
More Treatment Content
Are there treatments for the symptoms of acute intermittent porphyria attacks?
Are there treatments for the symptoms of acute intermittent porphyria attacks?
Medicine is often given to help control the pain of an attack, as well as any nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, fast heart rate, and anxiety. Glucose and carbohydrates are part of the initial treatments to for the disease. Pain medications are usually opiates, like morphine, and may be needed in large amounts. If the attack has caused major breathing problems, support can be given to help the patient breathe better. Also, a medicine called human hemin can be used to make the patient feel better or prevent attacks.
To learn more about the treatments and some side-effects they may cause, check out this website.
References
- Acute Intermittent Porphyria. Gene Reviews. (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1193)
