After a 12-week trial it was found that Alzheimer's patients with significant agitation experienced no change when compared to patients given a placebo reported Robert J. Howard, M.R.C.Psych., of Kings College London, and colleagues.
While previous studies had show some effect in the effectiveness of cholinesterase inhibitors any positive effect has been small. There was however, a small improvement in cognitive function among patients taking Aricept, brand name of donepezil.
William Thies, vice president of medical and scientific relations at the Alzheimer's Association, warns that completely writing off the drug is foolhardy. More research is needed because it is possible that cholinesterase inhibitors may delay the onset of agitation.
The Alzheimer's Assosication has the latest news and information on all advances and studies.
Comment Preview