On the Brink of Defeating Alzheimer’s? CareWorks Health Services Shares Latest Breakthroughs
Learn about two exciting new breakthroughs that are advancing us ever closer to defeating Alzheimer’s.
Exciting scientific studies are zeroing in ever nearer towards the eradication of Alzheimer’s disease, this time in the form of two medications already developed and approved by the FDA. This enables accelerated clinical trials and we hope fast-tracking us closer to a treatment.
The first, interestingly, is a drug utilized for treating HIV. Researchers have found that the genetic blueprint in Alzheimer’s patients is altered as the disease progresses, very similar to the genetic shuffling experienced in in people diagnosed with HIV. The idea is that placing a halt to the movement of these particular genes can possibly prevent the advancement associated with the disease.
As reported by 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 found that medications used to reduce blood sugar in diabetics, such as metformin, may have a direct impact on the reduction of the plaques and tangles linked with Alzheimer’s. While this might be helpful now for diabetics with Alzheimer’s who are already taking this medication, further research is needed before testing on Alzheimer’s patients without diabetes as a result of the possibility of dangerously low blood glucose levels and other side effects. Optimistically, the study outcomes add one more 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,” explained Vahram Haroutunian, professor of psychiatry and neuroscience of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
With nearly 6 million Americans currently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and an estimated increase to 14 million diagnoses within the next 40 years, it is imperative for researchers to gain ground on more fully understanding the root cause, effective treatment plans, and eventually a cure for this disease which has truly become an epidemic.
The Alzheimer’s care experts at CareWorks Health Services continue to gauge these as well as other advances, while providing the top quality care that maximizes general wellbeing while providing family members much-needed peace of mind. Our caregivers are professionally trained and highly skilled in helping manage a number of the more difficult aspects of Alzheimer’s disease including wandering, aggression, sundowning, inappropriate behaviors, and more. And our objective is always to be certain that seniors diagnosed with dementia are able to live life to its fullest potential, while remaining safe and comfortable in their home.
Give us a call at (949) 859-4700 or contact us online to learn more or to ask about resources that will help you and your family member navigate the journey of Alzheimer’s.