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Alzheimer's drug helps cognitive improvement

LTC Liability Monitor, May 4, 2006

A drug effective in treating residents with advanced Alzheimer's may also help residents in earlier stages of the disease, reported Doctor's Guide. The acetylcholinesterase inhibitor donepezil, which has shown benefits in cognitive and global functions for people with severe Alzheimer's, appears to be effective throughout the treatment spectrum, according to results of a 24-week study.

The 343 people in the study had Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores of one to 12, indicating severe Alzheimer's. The participants, who received either a placebo or donepezil, lived in the community or in ALFs. Scores showed that those who used the donepezil had greater improvements in cognition and global function than those taking the placebo, according to Doctor's Guide.

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