Medication Management of Alzheimer’s Disease

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, several medications can help manage symptoms, providing relief and supporting greater independence for those affected. The most commonly prescribed medications belong to a class called acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, which include drugs such as Galantamine, Rivastigmine, and Donepezil.

These medications work by targeting acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter critical for memory and cognitive function. In Alzheimer’s patients, the production of acetylcholine is reduced, contributing to the disease’s symptoms. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, thereby improving memory and thinking abilities and alleviating some of the cognitive decline.

Exciting advances are underway, with newer treatments targeting the underlying causes of Alzheimer’s. One such cause is the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques, which accumulate between neurons and disrupt brain function. Monoclonal antibodies, such as Lecanemab and Donanemab, are designed to target and remove these plaques. These medications are typically prescribed to individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or those with mild cognitive impairment. Clinical studies suggest that these treatments can slow the progression of symptoms by up to 30% in this population.

In addition to these therapies, ongoing research is continually advancing the use of monoclonal antibodies to reduce amyloid plaques in Alzheimer’s disease. At Bluewater Clinical Research Group, we are excited to be conducting a clinical trial to study Remternetug, a monoclonal antibody, delivered subcutaneously that targets and reduces amyloid plaques. Remternetug is designed to improve symptoms and enhance quality of life for individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease, offering hope for more effective symptom management.

Why are Clinical Trials Useful in Alzheimer’s Disease?

Clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of the disease, developing new treatments, and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.

Understanding the Disease Better: Alzheimer's disease is a complex and poorly understood neurodegenerative disorder. Clinical trials help researchers gain insights into the disease's underlying mechanisms, its progression, and how it affects the brain. This knowledge is essential for developing effective interventions.

Developing and Testing New Treatments: Clinical trials provide a platform for testing potential treatments, including medications such as Remternetug, therapies, and interventions, that could slow down, halt, or even reverse the progression of Alzheimer's. These trials are necessary to determine the safety and efficacy of new treatments before they can be approved for widespread use.