Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis treatment in Israel — get 3 personalized clinic matches

Israel currently hosts advanced clinical trials for ALS, including the pivotal Phase 3 study of PrimeC and Phase 3b for NurOwn stem cell therapy. These trials target neuroinflammation and nerve regeneration at centers like Sourasky Medical Center and Hadassah Medical Center. Researchers also evaluate NG01 autologous stem cells and RNA-based gene therapies to slow disease progression.

• Phase 3 PrimeC: Oral combination drug targeting neuroinflammation, initiating pivotal trials in 2025.
• NurOwn cell therapy: Autologous stem cell treatment with local manufacturing at Sourasky Medical Center.
• NG01 stem cells: Long-term studies at Hadassah show 45% of participants exceeding 10-year survival.
• AstroRx therapy: Cell-based approach using healthy astrocytes to support damaged neurons.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Data shows Israel is a primary site for mutation-specific trials, particularly for SOD1 and rare genetic variants. Specialized clinics like the one led by Prof. Dr. Viviean Drory at Sourasky Medical Center blend these experimental protocols with 30+ years of electrophysiology expertise. This integration often allows patients to access innovative drugs 6–12 months before they reach broader international markets.

Patient Consensus: Patients note that early genetic testing is vital because many Israeli trials now require specific biomarker matches. They also emphasize that the enrollment process can take over 6 months, making early registration with hospital databases essential.

Standard ALS care in Israel utilizes Riluzole and Edaravone to slow disease progression. Specialist centers like Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) also offer Tofersen for patients with the SOD1 mutation. These medications are often combined with multidisciplinary symptomatic therapies to improve quality of life and respiratory function.

• Riluzole: First-line glutamate antagonist available in tablet or liquid form to extend survival.
• Edaravone: Antioxidant administered via intravenous infusion cycles to slow functional decline in patients.
• Tofersen: Target therapy for SOD1 genetic mutations delivered through specialized spinal injections.
• Symptomatic drugs: Muscle relaxants like Baclofen and Tizanidine manage painful spasms and spasticity.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Data suggests that choosing high-volume centers like Sourasky Medical Center, which treats over 400,000 patients annually, provides better access to advanced protocols. Prof. Dr. Viviean Drory at this facility has over 35 years of experience in electrophysiological assessment. Such expertise is vital for the early diagnosis required to start Edaravone therapy effectively.

Patient Consensus: Patients note that while Riluzole is standard, the first month can involve side effects like nausea. Many emphasize requesting the Riluzole and Edaravone combination early to maximize stability.

Israel hosts premier multidisciplinary ALS centers at Sourasky Medical Center, Hadassah Medical Center, and Sheba Medical Center. These facilities utilize a one-stop-shop model. Patients access neurologists, respiratory therapists, and physical therapy in single visits. Leading specialists like Prof. Dr. Vivian Drory provide expert care.

• Sourasky Medical Center: Features a specialized Neuromuscular Department led by Prof. Dr. Vivian Drory.
• Hadassah Medical Center: Operates a dedicated ALS clinic known for advanced clinical trial access.
• Sheba Medical Center: Provides integrative care including neurological rehabilitation and specialized home monitoring.
• Rambam Medical Center: Offers a Neurology Day Hospitalization unit for consolidated neuromuscular medical services.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli ALS centers stand out because they integrate research directly into clinical care. For example, Hadassah Medical Center acts as a global leader in genetic research and stem cell trials. While Sourasky (Ichilov) remains a top choice for international patients due to its high ranking in Newsweek, its experts like Prof. Dr. Vivian Drory bring over 35 years of specialized experience. This combination of high-volume clinical practice and active scientific discovery often allows patients to access experimental protocols earlier than in many other regions.

Patient Consensus: Patients note that these centers provide remarkably fast access to specialized teams including pulmonologists and nutritionists. Many value the integrated speech therapy and ventilator support at Ichilov for significantly improving daily quality of life.

International patients can enroll in Israeli ALS clinical trials subject to Ministry of Health approval and specific study quotas. Participation often requires self-funding for experimental treatments. Prominent centers like Hadassah Medical Center and Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) frequently host global trials for stem cell and gene therapies.

• Regulatory oversight: The Israeli Ministry of Health manages foreign national enrollment via specific trial approvals.
• Potential costs: Experimental therapies for international participants may require significant private funding or subsidies.
• Leading institutions: Hadassah Medical Center conducts major studies on NG01 and AstroRx therapies.
• Specialized expertise: Prof. Viviean Drory at Ichilov specializes in ALS genetic research and drug therapy.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Data from major Israeli facilities shows a high concentration of ALS research in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. While Ichilov serves over 400,000 patients annually, its specialized neuromuscular department often prioritizes patients based on progression rates. Patients should look for trials with expanded access labels. These typically offer more flexibility for those traveling from outside the European Union or North America.

Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize the need to budget for significant travel and lodging costs during long-term trials. Many recommend prioritizing centers that provide English-language consent forms to avoid extra translation hurdles during the screening process.