Drug treatments of dementia
Article Abstract:
Studies of treatment regimens in dementia are difficult to interpret, in part, because most demented patients are elderly, have additional medical disorders (e.g., hypertension), and age-related reactions (e.g., low toxicity thresholds) to the drugs being tested. Two theories have emerged from studies examining the neurobiological aspects of senile dementia: the specificity theory suggests that each type of dementia is characterized by particular patterns of abnormalities of the substances that facilitate nerve signal transmission (neurotransmitters); the selectivity theory suggests that neurotransmitter abnormalities in each type of dementia are related to specific patterns of neuron loss. Cognitive (information acquisition and processing) deficits are central to most concepts of dementia, while behavioral and mood changes are viewed as secondary complications. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most studied of all dementias. In the late 1970s, it was discovered that alterations in cholinergic (involving the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine) activity are related to cognitive deficits in AD patients. Due to their side effects and the fact that they cannot selectively target central neurons, cholinergic activators have not been widely investigated in humans. Other treatment regimens involve vitamin therapy and drugs which modify the synthesis of various hormones, or modify serotonin, dopamine, gamma-aminobutyric acid and peptide neurotransmission. Although there are no known consistently effective drugs to prevent or relieve dementia, there is a great deal of ongoing research. An understanding of the molecular pathology of degenerative neurological disorders will likely provide the best approach for future treatment and prevention strategies. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: British Journal of Psychiatry
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0007-1250
Year: 1989
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Donepezil (Aricept) for Alzheimer's disease
Article Abstract:
Donepezil has joined tacrine hydrochloride as the only approved drugs for the treatment of dementia in Alzheimer's patients. Alzheimer's dementia is thought to be caused by a depletion of acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter. Donepezil, whose trade name is Aricept, blocks the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. In three controlled trials, donepezil was more effective than a placebo in improving cognitive function, but the effects were modest. Adverse effects include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1997
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