Celebrating the 70 years of pyridostigmine on therapy of Myasthenia Gravis: historical aspects of the preliminary trials

Arq Neuropsiquiatr. 2020 Mar;78(3):179-181. doi: 10.1590/0004-282X20190189. Epub 2020 Mar 16.

Abstract

Currently, pyridostigmine bromide is an indispensable anticholinesterase agent used worldwide to treat patients with Myasthenia Gravis (MG). However, pyridostigmine bromide was unsuccessful in its "pioneering trials" to treat a series of MG patients. There are important historical landmarks before pyridostigmine bromide becomes useful, safe and indispensable for MG therapy. After 70 years of these "pioneering trials", this article reviews some historical aspects related to them, as well as other preliminary trials using pyridostigmine bromide as therapy for MG patients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Myasthenia Gravis / drug therapy*
  • Pyridostigmine Bromide / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors
  • Pyridostigmine Bromide