What does symptomatic pharmacotherapy for ALS mean?

Symptomatic pharmacotherapy for ALS is used to alleviate the variable and individually different symptoms caused by the disease. It aims to reduce the symptoms, as a cure (and prevention of the development of symptoms) is not yet possible. Symptomatic medication is used to reduce speech disorders, unwanted laughing and crying (motor disinhibition), increased salivation, muscle cramps, spasticity, pain, sleep disorders, anxiety, depressive symptoms and breathing difficulties. The choice and dosage of medication is individualized and requires regular adjustments by the treating physicians. This accompanying therapy helps to cope better with the stresses and strains of ALS and to maintain autonomy