A Double-Blind Placebo Controlled Study of the Effect of Beta-Alanine, a Nonessential Amino-Acid, on Neurologic, Motor Function, Quality of Life, and Fatigue in Patients Diagnosed With Multiple Sclerosis (P7.253)

OBJECTIVE: B-alanine supplementation in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients may improve both muscular power and quality of life based on the association between motor performance and fatigue. Both outcomes are achieved with minimal risk to patients. BACKGROUND: Patients diagnosed with MS frequently develop muscle weakness due to demyelination of neurons and disuse of the muscle group. The associated decreased functional capacity and disability may underlie the fatigue and depression associated with MS. Currently, there is limited information on nutritional supplementation effects on these domains. Supplementation with B-alanine, a non-essential amino-acid, has been studied in athletes and healthy-elderly individuals and has shown positive outcomes on performance in both trained and non-trained individuals presumably by increasing levels of muscle carnosine. Carnosine is known to reduce blood lactic acid and improve excitation-contraction coupling. DESIGN/METHODS: The effect of supplementation on MS patients was studied using a double-blind placebo-controlled model; 21 patients were randomly assigned. Neurological status and fatigue profiles were assessed using the Expanded Disability-Status Scale, SF-36 Health Survey, Beck’s Depression Inventory, Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living, and Modified Fatigue Impact Scale. Objective motor performance was evaluated by studying body composition by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan, maximum power output on a stationary cycle-ergometer and Biodex System 3 Dynamometer, submaximal aerobic capacity on a stationary cycle ergometer, maximal walking distance using a 6-Minute Walk Test, and isokinetic and isometric strength and fatigue on a Biodex System 3 Dynamometer. Each subject underwent initial testing, supplementation for 4 weeks with 4.8 grams B-alanine daily or placebo. After 4 weeks of supplementation, tests that were performed initially were repeated. RESULTS: Study is ongoing. Results will be presented at time of conference. CONCLUSIONS: Current population size is not significant; testing of additional subjects may yield significant results. Study Supported by: AAN Medical Student Grant Disclosure: Dr. Kanter has nothing to disclose. Dr. Keiner has nothing to disclose. Dr. Biwer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Coughlin has nothing to disclose. Dr. DiFabio has nothing to disclose. Dr. Salmasinia has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ormsbee has nothing to disclose. Dr. Giannini has nothing to disclose. Dr. Maitland has nothing to disclose.