2023-07-16 08:00:00
To prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease, a study published in Annals of Neurology was interested in the usefulness of suvorexant, a sleeping pill authorized in the United States against insomnia.
Beta-amyloid concentrations were reduced
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis conducted a small, two-day clinical experiment to assess the effects of suvorexant on levels of tau and beta-amyloid in the brain. A total of thirty-eight participants between the ages of 45 and 65 without cognitive impairment were recruited for the study. Some volunteers received a low dose of suvorexant, others had a higher dose, while another part consumed a placebo.
The results showed that in the group with the highest dose of suvorexant, beta-amyloid concentrations were reduced by 10-20%. Additionally, levels of a modified form of the tau protein, called hyperphosphoryl tau, dropped by 10% to 15% compared to the group that consumed the placebo.
These results are promising because the presence of elevated levels of beta-amyloid and hyperphosphoryl tau is often associated with the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The reduction of these pathological markers could therefore potentially delay or prevent the onset of the disease.
Additional research
However, it is important to note that this study was small and requires further research to confirm these results and to investigate the long-term effects of suvorexant on cognitive health.
It is also important to point out that suvorexant, although already approved in the United States for the treatment of insomnia, is not currently approved for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.
Promote good sleep habits
In the meantime, promoting good sleep habits is key to supporting healthy brain aging. This includes establishing a regular sleep routine, avoiding blue light from screens before bedtime, and creating an environment conducive to rest and relaxation. Consultation with a healthcare professional is also recommended for anyone with persistent sleep issues or cognitive health concerns.
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by impaired memory and cognitive functions. It affects millions of people around the world and places a considerable burden on patients, their families and healthcare systems. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, making the search for prevention strategies even more important.
1689497944
#solution #sleeping #pill