Treatment for Prader-Willi syndrome
Treatment for Prader-Willi syndrome focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Treatment could include: Devices, such as special bottle nipples, to help infants get enough nutrition. Helping your child eat properly, including a low-calorie diet and managing how much they eat. Medications to increase amounts of certain hormones, such as growth hormone, and testosterone or human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) for boys or children assigned male at birth (AMAB) and estrogen for girls or children assigned female at birth (AFAB). Supportive therapies such as physical therapy, speech-language therapy and special education to improve physical and cognitive function. What are the complications associated with Prader-Willi syndrome? Many people with Prader-Willi syndrome develop obesity from overeating. Complications from obesity may include: Cardiac (heart) problems. Diabetes (Type 2). Hypertension (high blood pressure). Respiratory (lung) problems. Sleep apnea (interrupted breathing during sleep). Obesity is a complex but manageable condition. Your child’s healthcare provider can offer guidance on how you can help your child and prevent complications.