The Benefits of Early Detection
New treatments are most effective when prescribed early in the disease.
Since 1996 five new drugs have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Four of these drugs work by slowing the breakdown of acetylcholine, a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) that is necessary for memory formation: Cognex, Aricept, Exelon, and Reminyl. The fifth drug, Namenda, works by regulating glutamate, another neurotransmitter that is disrupted in Alzheimer's Disease, and protecting brain cells (neurons) that are lost during Alzheimer's Disease. Research suggests that combining Namenda with drugs that promote acetylcholine (i.e., Aricept) offers better results than any single drug.
Although none of these drugs can stop or reverse the course of Alzheimer's Disease, research shows that the earlier patients with Alzheimer's Disease begin taking these medications, the longer they preserve their mental abilities. This has placed a great emphasis on the early detection of abnormal memory decline.
The importance of early detection has been expressed by the Surgeon General:
“The urgency of addressing obstacles to recognition and accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is underscored by promising studies that point to the pronounced clinical advantages of early detection.” - Mental Health: Report to the Surgeon General, 1999.
With early detection, comes the opportunity for intervention, and the opportunity to significantly alter the course of Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias.
The Benefits of Early Detection
