 |
|
Data from retrospective (looking backward)
studies of large populations of people (epidemiological studies) suggest
that long-term use of certain medications may reduce the likelihood of
developing Alzheimer's disease. Among candidates for a preventive role
in Alzheimer's disease are:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, such as
- ibuprofen (Advil, Medipren, Motrin, Nuprin and others)
- naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn and others)
- celecoxib (Celebrex)
- Nutritional treatments, such as
- vitamin E
- Ginkgo biloba
- vitamins B6 and B12
- folic acid
- vitamin C
- Hormonal treatments, such as
- estrogen replacement therapy for women (see estrogen)
- Statin drugs used to lower cholesterol and other lipids, such as
- atorvastatin (Lipitor)
- fluvastatin (Lescol)
- lovastatin (Mevacor)
- pravastatin (Pravachol)
- rosuvastatin (Crestor)
- simvastatin (Zocor)
- Histamine H2 blockers used to treat ulcers, such as
- cimetidine (Tagamet)
- nizatidine (Axid)
- ranitidine (Zantac)
Proper prospective (forward looking) long-term scientific studies involving placebo-controlled, randomized exposure to some agents in these groups are being conducted or planned. Research on the benefits of preventive agents requires many years of study in very large populations. Each of these treatments has side effects. A decision to use these agents to prevent Alzheimer's disease in individuals who may never suffer it must be made on an individual basis, ideally after consultation with a knowledgeable physician. Lastly, another preventive measure being explored is a vaccine to prevent the accumulation of beta-amyloid in the brain (see vaccination section).
back to top
|
|
