Learn how 2 FDA approved medications are fast-tracking us closer to an Alzheimer’s cure, in this article from the Kalamazoo senior care experts.Groundbreaking research is zeroing in ever nearer to the eradication of Alzheimer’s disease, this time through two new Alzheimer’s medications already developed and approved by the FDA. This enables accelerated clinical trials and hopefully fast-tracking us even closer to a cure.
The first, interestingly, is a medication used to treat HIV. Researchers and scientists have found that the genetic blueprint in Alzheimer’s patients is altered as the disease advances, similar to the genetic shuffling that occurs in individuals with HIV. The thought is that placing a halt on the movement of the particular genes can possibly prevent the progression of the disease.
As reported by lead investigator 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 have discovered that medications used to lower blood sugar levels in diabetics, such as metformin, could have a direct impact in the decrease in the plaques and tangles linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Although this could be helpful now for diabetics with Alzheimer’s who are already taking this medication, further research is called for before testing on Alzheimer’s patients without diabetes because of the possibility of dangerously low blood glucose and other side effects. Optimistically, the study outcomes add an additional piece to the puzzle of dementia.
These studies “…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,” stated Vahram Haroutunian, professor of psychiatry and neuroscience of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
With as many as six million Americans currently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and an expected increase to 14 million diagnoses within the next 40 years, it’s crucial for medical scientists to gain ground on better comprehending the cause, effective treatment plans, and eventually a cure, for this disease that has truly grown to be an epidemic.
The Alzheimer’s care experts at Home Sweet Home In-Home Care will continue to track these and other advances, while providing the finest quality care that enhances general wellbeing while providing members of the family much-needed peace of mind. Our caregivers are fully trained and exceptionally skilled in helping oversee many of the more challenging areas of Alzheimer’s disease, such as wandering, aggression, sundowning, inappropriate behaviors, and much more. And our aim is always to ensure seniors diagnosed with dementia are able to live life to its fullest potential, while remaining secure and comfortable in their home.
Give us a call at (269) 224-1683 to find out more about our dementia care services or to ask about resources to help you and your senior loved one navigate the journey of Alzheimer’s. You can also contact us online to learn more about our Kalamazoo senior care services, or visit our service area page to see all of the cities that we serve in Michigan.