What is the long-term treatment for MG?

What is the long-term treatment for MG?

• A. Prostigmin
• B. Insulin
• C. Beta blockers
• D. Levodopa

Answer: (A)

In MG, weakness results from impaired transmission at the neuromuscular junction due to antibodies against acetylcholine receptors. Long-term management aims to boost acetylcholine availability so it can continue to stimulate the few functioning receptors. Prostigmin (neostigmine) is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, which blocks the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. By slowing its breakdown, more acetylcholine remains in the synapse to activate receptors, improving muscle strength over time. This makes it a fit for ongoing, long-term symptom control. The other options don’t address acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction: insulin treats diabetes, beta blockers are used for cardiovascular conditions, and levodopa is used for Parkinson disease.

In MG, weakness results from impaired transmission at the neuromuscular junction due to antibodies against acetylcholine receptors. Long-term management aims to boost acetylcholine availability so it can continue to stimulate the few functioning receptors. Prostigmin (neostigmine) is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, which blocks the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. By slowing its breakdown, more acetylcholine remains in the synapse to activate receptors, improving muscle strength over time. This makes it a fit for ongoing, long-term symptom control.

The other options don’t address acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction: insulin treats diabetes, beta blockers are used for cardiovascular conditions, and levodopa is used for Parkinson disease.