What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for ALS that focus on enhancing respiratory function, speech capabilities, and emotional well-being include respiratory therapy, speech therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions. Respiratory therapy can sometimes cause discomfort or fatigue due to the use of mechanical aids. Speech therapy generally has minimal side effects but may lead to temporary vocal strain. Mindfulness-based interventions, such as controlled breathing and relaxation practices, are generally well-tolerated but can occasionally cause initial discomfort or anxiety as patients adjust to new techniques.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The FDA has approved several drugs for the treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), including riluzole and edaravone. Riluzole is known to slow the progression of ALS by reducing glutamate levels, while edaravone helps to reduce oxidative stress in neurons. Although these drugs do not specifically target respiratory function, speech capabilities, or emotional well-being, they contribute to overall disease management. Non-pharmacologic approaches, such as respiratory therapies and speech therapy, are also commonly used to support these functions in ALS patients.

What other types of research exist?

Promising alternatives to Yogic Breathing Exercise Program for ALS patients include: 1) Non-invasive ventilatory support (NIV) with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) to improve ventilation and sleep quality. 2) Respiratory muscle training to enhance pulmonary function and cough efficacy. 3) Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) to improve emotional well-being and reduce anxiety. These interventions have shown potential in improving respiratory function, speech capabilities, and emotional well-being in patients with respiratory muscle dysfunction and other chronic conditions.

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Behavioral Intervention

Yogic Breathing Exercises for ALS

N/A

Recruiting

Led By Hon Yuen, PhD

Research Sponsored by University of Alabama at Birmingham

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Ability to follow multistep commands

Confirmed ALS diagnosis

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up at 3 months

Awards & highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

Summary

This trial tests if an online yogic breathing program can help people with ALS improve their breathing, speech, and emotional health. The exercises aim to strengthen breathing muscles and boost overall well-being.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for adults over 18 with ALS who can use the internet and follow instructions. They should be able to speak, have a certain level of lung function (FVC ≥70%), and not expect to live less than 6 months. They shouldn't be in another study or have severe hearing or vision problems.

What is being tested?

The trial tests a virtual yogic breathing exercise program over six weeks, aiming to improve breathing, speech, and emotional well-being in people with ALS.

What are the potential side effects?

Yogic breathing exercises are generally safe but may include mild discomfort like dizziness or shortness of breath. Emotional changes due to improved well-being might also occur.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

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I can understand and follow complex instructions.

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I have been diagnosed with ALS.

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I am older than 18 years.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ at 3 months

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~at 3 months

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and at 3 months for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

ALS Depression Inventory

ALS Specific Quality of Life-Revised

Forced vital capacity (FVC)

+15 more

Awards & Highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

All patients enrolled in this study will receive some form of active treatment.

Trial Design

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Yogic breathing exerciseExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Participation in a 6 weekly virtual yogic breathing exercise training with 1-3 sessions per week.

Group II: Waitlist controlActive Control1 Intervention

Participation in usual daily activities

0 / 3Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

The most common treatments for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) focus on enhancing respiratory function, speech capabilities, and emotional well-being. Respiratory function is often supported through noninvasive ventilation to manage muscle weakness and prevent hypoventilation. Speech therapy can help maintain communication abilities as the disease progresses. Emotional well-being is addressed through psychological support and interventions like mindfulness and relaxation practices. Programs like the Yogic Breathing Exercise Program aim to improve these areas by using controlled breathing techniques and relaxation practices, which can enhance respiratory efficiency, support speech production, and reduce stress, thereby improving overall quality of life for ALS patients.