This has been quite a big week for Alzheimer’s research. A number of new reports have discussed a major development that holds promise in tackling dementia in Alzheimer’s patients. An experimental drug has been shown to benefit patients living with this condition, and there are two studies that prove precisely this.
Understanding Dementia
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are often used interchangeably, which is incorrect since Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia. Dementia, on the other hand, is typically used to describe a set of symptoms that may be caused by other medical conditions, besides Alzheimer’s. Some of the early signs of dementia include poor short term memory, brain fog and difficulty in concentration, etc. When tackled early, some symptoms can be addressed effectively.
The Experimental Drug
A new drug by Pfizer Inc and Johnson & Johnson, called bapineuzumab, is being subject to further studies to determine how it can best be used address the condition of dementia. It is important to note that the drug does not treat or halt dementia, but influences the biology of Alzheimer’s to avoid a steady mental decline. Initially, the drug did not show much promise, and researchers concluded that they had failed in their attempts to develop an effective medical solution. However, after testing it in two separate studies, researchers became more optimistic about its efficacy, and made a public statement about its potential in tacking dementia.
One of the researchers, while admitting that the drug wasn’t quite the near-term treatment they were hoping for, stressed that the results from the two studies were very encouraging. It is being suggested that bapineuzumab may work if administered during the early stages of the condition, before too much memory loss or brain damage has occurred.
The Studies
In these two different studies, over 100 patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s in Canada and the US were tested with bapineuzumab. All of them shared something in common – a genetic pattern that increased the risk of developing the disease. Some patients reported stable brain plaque levels and lesser evidence of brain damage.
Bapineuzumab attaches to and allows the clearing of amyloid, which is the sticky plaque clogging the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. While there is still no solid proof to declare whether amyloid is a symptom or cause of Alzheimer’s, efforts are on by many companies to develop drugs that can remove amyloid.
The Need for Compassionate and Quality Memory Care
Carlton Senior Living provides high quality memory care in five of its communities. Residents are able to interact and feel safe in a separate and secure area, which includes a well-maintained private courtyard. Monitoring technology and top-notch care ensures that residents living with Alzheimer’s can feel right at home and flourish regardless of their condition.
