Pyridostigmine improves hand grip strength in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a multisystemic disease characterized by exertional intolerance and fatigue which is often accompanied by muscle weakness and fatiguability. A study showed efficacy of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor pyridostigmine on cardiac output in ME/CFS patients. Pyridostigmine is currently used off-label in ME/CFS and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome.

Methods

We evaluated the effect of pyridostigmine on hand grip strength in 20 patients with post-infectious ME/CFS. Hand grip strength testing was performed ten times using an electric dynamometer and was repeated after 1 h. In a second test, 30 mg of pyridostigmine was given immediately after the first measurement. Orthostatic function was assessed usi

SUBMITTER: Schlomer E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12441162 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature