The treatment for MG is primarily medication to counter the effects of the autoimmune antibodies.

These medications include:

1. Pyridostigmine: This is the most commonly used medication.

• It is not suitable for patients who have electrical problems of the heart; your doctor may perform an ECG beforehand to confirm this.
• Its most bothersome side effect is that of diarrhoea, abdominal and muscle cramps.
• Your doctor will prescribe another medication to be taken as necessary should you suffer from these side effects.

2. Steroids: Steroids can be very effective, but long-term use may cause some side effects which include:

• High blood sugar
• High blood pressure
• Increased weight
• Osteoporosis
• Bleeding from pre-existing gut or stomach ulcers
• Increased risk of infections
• Abnormalities of the blood salts
• Swelling of the ankles

3. Steroid-sparing immunosuppression

• These are tablets which are aimed to replace the steroids you are taking in future, but do not act as quickly.
• These require monitoring in the form of regular blood tests, depending on the type of tablet you are prescribed.

What is the outlook for this condition?

A proportion of patients may develop generalized MG. You should see your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing (especially on lying down)
• Difficulty swallowing
• Change in voice quality
• Weakness of the arms and legs
• Indicating weakness of the neck (weakness when lifting your head)

MG is a long-term condition which will need regular monitoring. However, with medication, most patients are able to continue having a good quality of life.