New Alzheimers Drugs Evaluated
According to recent news articles, several drugs still in the experimental phase show promise against reversing Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists believe that the next generation of Alzheimer’s drugs will either prevent or destroy plaques and tangles made up of two proteins in the brain called tau and beta-amyloid. Protein plaques and tangles have been identified as playing key roles in the destruction of brain nerve cells that leads to loss of memory, the ability to reason, and ultimately a person’s life.
A recent Associated Press report indicates that scientists will begin a study of Dimebon, an old antihistamine. A small study has shown that this drug improves mental functioning. It is thought to provide a nerve protective effect. Another drug being studied is Ketasyn, which contains fatty acids that serve as an alternative food supply for hungry neurons in the brain. One drug company is working on a yet to be named drug that blocks an enzyme needed to produce beta-amyloid. Finally, at least one company is evaluating antibodies made in the lab that attack the nerve plaques after they have already formed.