Alzheimer's Treatment: Combo-Therapy is Best


Contributed by: Dennis Fortier, President, Medical Care Corporation
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A new study presented at the 14th Congress of the European Federation of Neurological Societies (EFNS) strongly supports earlier findings about treatment efficacy of combination therapy. The research showed that, when treating Alzheimer's disease, a combination of a cholinesterase inhibitor like Aricept plus Namenda is significantly better than mono-therapy with a cholinesterase inhibitor only.

In this study of more than 400 patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease, significant improvements in patients receiving combined therapy were noted in cognition, function, behavior, global outcome, and care dependency. These are robust findings that might begin to change nihilistic attitudes toward Alzheimer's treatment.

The most optimistic view of treatment efficacy comes not only from studies like this, showing the benefits of combo-therapy, but from a more robust approach. To maximize treatment effect, we need to intervene earlier in the disease process so that patients can start therapy before massive neuron death and synapse loss occurs. Additionally, we need to augment the benefits of drug treatment with a balanced diet, physical activity, and proper control of other co-morbid conditions such as diabetes ad hypertension. Most probably, staying intellectually active and socially engaged is also beneficial.

Given the generally defeatist tone of most press about Alzheimer's treatment, I am happy to see the occasional positive press about our ability to combat this disease. We have a long way to go but the facts are more comforting than most headlines suggest.

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A better understanding and more awareness of Alzheimer's related issues can impact personal health decisions and generate significant impact across a population of aging individuals. Please use the share buttons below to spread this educational message as widely as possible.

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