Treatment Neurology & Neurosurgery

Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
Treatments

Currently, there is no cure for Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). Researchers have tested many drugs, including acyclovir, amantidine, antibiotics, antiviral agents, interferon and steroids. None has shown consistent benefit.

Treatment is aimed at alleviating symptoms and making the patient as comfortable as possible. Drugs can help relieve pain if it occurs. The drugs clonazepam and sodium valproate may help relieve myoclonus or irregular, jerking movements.

Researchers at the UCSF Memory and Aging Center are trying to identify compounds for treatment or a cure for CJD and other diseases caused by the infectious particles called prions.

UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.

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