Update on the Symptomatic Treatment of Huntington’s Disease: From Pathophysiology to Clinical Practice

Abstract

Huntington’s disease (HD) is the most common autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by a triad of motor dysfunction, cognitive decline, and psychiatric disturbances. While recent efforts have focused on developing disease-modifying therapies, no treatment has yet demonstrated clinical efficacy. As a result, symptomatic treatment remains the cornerstone of care. However, high-quality evidence from large randomized trials is limited, and therapeutic decisions must rely on clinical expertise and extrapolation from other neurological or psychiatric conditions. This narrative review provides a comprehensive and practical overview of symptomatic treatment strategies for HD with emphasis on the pathophysiological underpinnings of each symptom and the molecular mechanisms of available and emerging therapies, aiming to support rational, individualized management. Finally, we highlight the critical role of non-pharmacological interventions and the need for multidisciplinary approaches to optimize patient outcomes and quality of life.