There is no cure for myasthenia gravis. However, most therapies (treatments) are very effective in controlling symptoms. In fact, the majority of MG patients who undergo treatment become completely free of symptoms, and can lead normal (or near normal) lives. In some cases, all that is required to relieve symptoms are adequate sleep and rest. Some treatment options include:-



Cholinesterase inhibitors - such as pyridostigmine (Mestinon) block the action of the chemical that normally makes the muscle relax after it has contracted - they improve communication between nerves and muscles. This medication is very effective for patients with mild MG symptoms; helping the affected muscles contract properly and maintain good strength. Some side effects may include nausea and/or stomach cramps.

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Steroids or Immunosuppressants 

Prednisolone (a steroid drug) or azathioprine (an immunosuppressant drug) may alter the body's immune system and lower the production of antibodies that cause MG. It usually takes about four weeks for the effects of steroids to appear, while azathioprine may take from three to six months.

These medication are usually very effective; either significantly reducing symptoms or getting rid of them altogether.

This type of medication is usually only given to patients who could not have their thymus gland surgically removed, or those whose symptoms did not improve after surgery.

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Removal of the thymus gland (thymectomy)

​About 15% of MG patients have a tumor in their thymus gland. In such cases a thymectomy is required - the gland is surgically removed.

It is unclear whether the risks of removing the thymus gland outweigh the benefits for MG patients who don't have a tumor. If the patient's symptoms are mild, only involve the eyes, or if he/she is over 60 years of age most doctors will not recommend surgery.

Surgically removing the thymus gland improves symptoms for over 70% of MG patients, and eliminates symptoms completely for 30%. Improvements gradually appear over a period of 12 months; in some cases this may take longer (up to 3 years).

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Plasmaphoresis and immunoglobulin therapy - this therapy, which is given in hospital, is used for patients with severe symptoms; specifically patients with life-threatening breathing or swallowing problems.

Plasmaphoresis

​The procedure depletes the body of blood plasma without depleting the body of its blood cells. Blood is removed from the body, the plasma is separated from the cells, the cells are then suspended in saline (or a plasma substitute or donor plasma), and the reconstituted solution is returned to the patient. Put simply - the blood is taken out of the patient, the abnormal antibodies that cause MG are removed, and the blood is placed back into the patient.

Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy 

Normal antibodies that alter the way the immune system acts are injected into the patient.
Although extremely effective with rapid results, the benefits last no longer than a few weeks. This treatment is a short-term one, used only if the patient is extremely ill.



The extent of the problems is dependent on the severity of the condition and the presence of other problems that could affect the individual. In severe cases, a breathing machine may be required to help the person breathe easier.

The health care team educates the family after hospitalization on how to best care for the person at home and outlines specific clinical problems that require immediate medical attention by their doctor. A person with MG requires frequent medical evaluations throughout his or her life.

It is important to allow as much independent function and self-care as possible and to promote appropriate activities to ensure a sense of normalcy.