Remarkable scientific studies are honing in ever nearer towards the eradication of Alzheimer’s disease, this time in the form of two medications already developed and approved by the FDA. This permits accelerated clinical trials and we hope fast-tracking us closer to a treatment.

The first, interestingly, is a drug utilized in treating HIV. Scientists are finding that the genetic blueprint in Alzheimer’s patients is altered as the disease progresses, just like the genetic shuffling that occurs in people diagnosed with HIV. The thought is that placing a halt to the movement of those certain genes may prevent the advancement associated with the disease.

According to lead researcher Jerold Chun, “For the first time, we can see what may cause the disease. We also uncovered a potential near-term treatment.”

Subsequently, scientists at Mount Sinai discovered that medications used to lower blood sugar levels in diabetics, such as metformin, might have a direct impact on the decrease in the plaques and tangles linked to Alzheimer’s. While this can be helpful right away for diabetics with Alzheimer’s who are already taking this medication, additional research is needed before testing on Alzheimer’s patients without diabetes due to the potential for dangerously low glucose levels as well as other unwanted effects. Encouragingly, the research outcomes add one more piece to the puzzle of dementia.

These results “…point us to the biological mechanisms that are being affected by those drugs. Hopefully, now we can find drugs that would have similar effects on the brain without changing the blood sugar levels,” said Vahram Haroutunian, professor of psychiatry and neuroscience of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

With as many as 6 million Americans currently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and an estimated increase of 14 million diagnoses in the next 40 years, it is crucial for researchers to gain ground on better comprehending the cause, effective treatment plans, and ultimately a cure for this disease which has truly become an epidemic.

The Alzheimer’s care professionals at North River Home Care continue to keep track of these and other developments, while providing the highest quality care that enhances overall wellbeing while providing family members necessary peace of mind. Our caregivers are professionally trained and exceptionally skilled in helping manage some of the more complex facets of Alzheimer’s disease, such as wandering, aggression, sundowning, inappropriate behaviors, and many more. And our objective is always to ensure seniors with dementia have the ability to live life to its fullest potential, while remaining secure and comfortable at home.

Contact us at 781.905.8432 to find out more or to request resources that will help you as well as your family member navigate the journey of Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s Home Care Services