Slowing down ALS ™ is this good or bad?

The availability of a drug that provides modest relief in ALS without altering its inevitable progression and end, has posed new ethical and economic problems for patients, caregivers and physicians. Early evidence suggests that riluzole does provide a short additional quality of life and economic benefit for patient and society. However, there is a clear need for additional therapies, even if the benefit is minor. (ALS 2001; 2 (suppl 1): S19–S22)