A Touch of Grey
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Carole MarkAudio Experimental Alzheimer's Drug
About 4-million older Americans suffer from Alzheimer's. It's a degenerative disease that can impair your memory, thinking and behavior. A new experimental drug called Aricept may relieve some of the suffering. "Aricept" was tested on over 400 patients with Alzheimer's disease. Doctors found the drug improved memory, thinking and ability to function.
Rachelle Doody, M.D. Ph.D., Baylor College of Medicine: "We know that it doesn't cure the disease, and it doesn't even stop the progression, but it appears to give some relief to some of the symptoms for a period of time."
Doctors believe the drug increases the amount of acetylcholine in the brain which is diminished in Alzheimer's patients. Acetylcholine is a chemical associated with memory and learning.
Patients on Aricept report only mild side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. The drug has been submitted to the FDA for approval.
If you would like more information, please contact:
Kathy Major, Public Affairs, Baylor College of Medicine,
One Houston Plaza, Houston, Texas 77030
(713) 798-4712