Exciting research is zeroing in ever nearer to the eradication of Alzheimer’s disease, this time in the form of two medications already developed and approved by the FDA. This allows for expedited clinical trials and hopefully fast-tracking us closer to a cure.
The first, surprisingly, is a drug used to treat HIV. Scientists have found that the genetic blueprint in Alzheimer’s patients is modified as the disease progresses, similar to the genetic shuffling experienced in those with HIV. The theory is that putting a halt to the movement of these particular genes can prevent the advancement of 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.”
Secondly, scientists at Mount Sinai have discovered that medications used to lower blood sugar in diabetics, such as metformin, may have an impact on the reduction of the plaques and tangles linked to Alzheimer’s. While this may be helpful immediately for diabetics with Alzheimer’s who are already taking this medication, further research is needed before testing on Alzheimer’s patients without diabetes due to the potential for dangerously low blood sugar levels and other side effects. Encouragingly, the study results add another piece to the puzzle of dementia.
These findings “…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,” according to 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, and a projected leap to 14 million diagnoses in the next 40 years, it’s crucial for medical researchers to gain ground on better understanding the cause, effective treatment options, and ultimately a cure for this disease that has truly become an epidemic.
The DuPage County dementia care experts at Independence-4-Seniors Home Care will continue to monitor these and other advances, while providing the highest quality care that maximizes overall wellbeing while giving family members much-needed peace of mind. Our caregivers are fully trained and highly skilled in helping manage some of the more difficult aspects of Alzheimer’s disease, such as wandering, aggression, sundowning, inappropriate behaviors, and more. Our goal is always to ensure seniors with dementia are able to live life to their fullest potential, while remaining safe and comfortable at home.
Give us a call at (630) 323-4665 to learn more or to request resources to help you and your loved one navigate the journey of Alzheimer’s disease.