CJD has no cure, and cannot be controlled. Many drugs have been researched and tested unsuccessfully, including steroids, antiviral agents, antibiotics, interferon and acyclovir. Research and testing of other drugs is ongoing, however none of the tested treatments have shown any benefit to humans.
Treatment of CJD is therefore limited to easing the symptoms of the disease and helping the patient to be as comfortable as possible through medication. The relief of pain, if present, is often achieved through the use of opiate drugs. As the disease progresses the patient’s position is changed often in order to keep him/her comfortable and to prevent bedsores. The patient may receive fluids intravenously and a catheter may be used to drain urine.