Trying Nutrition Formula by Mouth Before Tube Feeding in ALS

This study is testing whether people with ALS who drink a special nutrition formula by mouth before their feeding tube is placed will have fewer digestive problems once the tube is in place. Right now, about 28% of ALS patients who get feeding tubes experience stomach upset or intolerance to the formula, which can make them stop using the tube and lose weight. This small trial of 22 people will see if getting your body used to the formula taste and feel before the tube is placed can prevent these problems.

Many people with ALS eventually need a feeding tube because their disease makes swallowing unsafe and meals take too long. While feeding tubes save lives, they often cause digestive problems that make patients stop using them. There is almost no research on how to prevent these problems in ALS patients, even though doctors know it's a real issue.