Familial Periodic Paralysis

What are the treatments for the condition?

For those with the low potassium form of this condition, low carbohydrate, low sodium diets may help prevent attacks. Potassium may be given if an attack to slow or stop an attack. Usually, potassium is given as a pill or liquid, but intravenous potassium may be given for severe weakness. A medication called acetazolamide can help prevent attacks in many people.

A person with the normal or high potassium forms of this condition should follow a low potassium diet to help prevent attacks. If an attack does occur, a high-carbohydrate food, such as a snack high in sugar, may help stop or slow the attack. Acetazolamide is also used to help prevent attacks. Another class of medications called thiazide diuretics, or "water pills," can also be tried to help prevent attacks.

A person should be monitored and treated for any arrhythmias or difficulty breathing. These more serious signs are more common in the low potassium form of this condition.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

All medications have possible side effects. Giving too much potassium can cause muscle weakness and arrhythmias. The other medications can cause allergic reactions, stomach upset, and salt imbalances.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

Lifelong treatment of periodic familial paralysis is usually needed because this condition cannot be cured.

How is the condition monitored?

Any change in the number of attacks or response to treatment should be reported to the healthcare provider. The medications may need to be changed to improve symptoms or decrease side effects. A chem-7 blood test may be done occasionally to monitor for salt imbalances from the medications. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.