Aging Brain Aging Mind
(Part 2)

There is no cure for Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Treatment is aimed at slowing the progression of the disease down or treating the symptoms. A current list of treatments is listed below:

• Tacrine (Cognex), Aricept and Galantamine (Reminyl)
  These drugs work by increasing brain acetylcholine levels but not all patients benefit and usually only modest benefits can be seen. Tacrine and Aricept only treat the symptoms. Reminyl also sensitizes acetylcholine receptors and helps slow AD down over six to twelve months.

• APP Cleavage Inhibitors
  Research is ongoing to develop these substances that inhibit the enzymes responsible for abnormal APP cleavage. This will reduce ß-amyloid production in the brain thus slowing AD down.

• Anti-inflammatory Drugs
  NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin and prescription drugs all work at reducing the risk of AD and delaying the onset. Research is ongoing to develop new NSAIDs without the gastrointestinal side-effects (ie. stomach ulcers).

• Antioxidants
  Vitamin E (2000IU/day) has been shown to slow AD down by about seven months. Ginkgo Biloba (120-240mg/day) stabilizes or improves cognitive function in AD patients. It's not only an antioxidant but it also increases blood flow in the brain. Be advised it is a blood thinner. Current studies indicate Vitamin E and Ginkgo Biloba are effective in delaying and/or treating mild to moderate AD. Severe AD or final stage is too late for this treatment to be effective. Most studies use only one extraction process for Ginkgo Biloba (EGb761). Only one source of this Ginkgo Biloba in the U.S., Ginkgold by Natures Way.

• Estrogen Replacement
  Estrogen reduction at menopause may be responsible for the increased risk of AD in women. Recent studies have shown that estrogen treatment to women with AD improves memory.

• Vaccination with Human ß-amyloid (Aß)
  The most recent advance in prevention/treatment of AD. Developed in 1999 and tested with mice. The Aß vaccine works by directly preventing Aß deposition or reabsorption via antibodies. Phase two clinical trials have begun in AD patients. For more information on participation in these trials call 1-888-635-9987 (Elan Pharmaceuticals).

by Carol Glasscock, MS,PT