2023-11-03 08:45:01
Leipzig Neurologist Finds Hope in New Alzheimer’s Therapies
Leipzig – In a breakthrough that offers hope to millions, neurologist Prof. Dr. Dorothee Saur from Leipzig University Hospital (UKL) has revealed that new therapies could soon be approved for the treatment of early forms of Alzheimer’s disease. This news comes as a ray of hope for patients and doctors who have long struggled with finding effective treatment methods.
Currently, two drugs are under examination for approval by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), with one already available on the market in the United States. These drugs have shown promising results in clinical trials, successfully causing the disappearance of amyloid plaques, which are protein deposits in the brain linked to Alzheimer’s.
Administered antibodies stimulate the immune system, prompting it to attack and eliminate the existing amyloid deposits, as observed in PET brain scans. Prof. Saur emphasizes that this breakthrough does not stop the disease, but it slows down its progression by up to 30 percent. While this may not seem like a drastic improvement, it can significantly impact the lives of those affected, potentially granting them additional years of life with fewer restrictions.
The medication is given through intravenous infusions that last several hours, administered at regular intervals of two to four weeks over a period of months. The progression of the disease is monitored using MRI examinations.
Determining the appropriate time to start therapy can be challenging, as recognizing the initial signs of Alzheimer’s is often difficult. In the early stages, individuals may not notice significant changes in their daily lives, and any cognitive impairments may be minimal. However, PET scans, specialized MRIs, or cerebrospinal fluid diagnostics can reveal the early stages of the disease process. Therefore, the therapies are expected to be approved for individuals in the early progression stages.
In addition to memory loss, other symptoms of Alzheimer’s may include a lack of drive, sleep disorders, mood swings, and various physical ailments. Individuals who notice signs of illness should consult with a healthcare professional.
Germany’s medical community anticipates the new medications to be approved by early summer 2024. This development brings hope to both patients and doctors, offering a glimmer of light in the battle against Alzheimer’s dementia.
To help individuals assess memory and other brain functions, Prof. Dorothee Saur has developed a test that can aid in recognizing Alzheimer’s dementia. If you are concerned about a loved one’s declining memory, this test can provide valuable insights. Access to the test is available for app users.
As the world continues to grapple with the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s, the potential approval of these new therapies represents a significant step forward in the fight against this debilitating disease.]
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