Viagra Is The Best Existing Treatment For Alzheimer's Disease, Scientists Say

Viagra, a popular erectile dysfunction medication, may be the world's only existing treatment against Alzheimer's disease, according to over 20 experts. A panel of 21 experts recently combed through anonymous nominations, clinical evidence and found that out of 80 existing medications that show potential in treating the neurodegenerative disorder. Out of those, Sildenafil (Viagra) ranked first, with Zostavax (a shingles vaccine) and Riluzole (a drug used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) coming in second and third. "Each of the priority candidates has evidence supporting relevant underlying mechanisms of action, non-clinical studies, and clinical evidence from epidemiological studies and/or preliminary clinical trials," the researchers wrote in their paper."The tolerability of each of these compounds is also suitable for administration to a frailer population of older individuals as part of a well-monitored clinical trial program. We therefore recommend each of these therapeutic approaches as a high priority for clinical trials for the treatment or prevention of Alzheimer's disease."The researchers found that Viagra may support brain health in several ways. Studies suggest it can promote the growth of nerve extensions (neurites) and reduce abnormal tau protein activity as well as improve blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain. Previous research also shows that the compound can reduce levels of amyloid-beta (Aβ42) in the hippocampus and lower markers of brain inflammation. Additionally, it can also protect neurons from amyloid-beta damage.Scientists are yet to determine the exact mechanism behind how Viagra can help protect the brain from Alzheimer's-related damage. What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?Alzheimer's disease is one of the most common forms of dementia and mostly affects adults over the age of 65.About 8.8 million Indians aged 60 and above are estimated to be living with Alzheimer's disease. Over seven million people in the US 65 and older live with the condition and over 100,00 die from it annually.Alzheimer's disease is believed to be caused by the development of toxic amyloid and beta proteins in the brain, which can accumulate in the brain and damage cells responsible for memory.Amyloid protein molecules stick together in brain cells, forming clumps called plaques. At the same time, tau proteins twist together in fiber-like strands called tangles. The plaques and tangles block the brain's neurons from sending electrical and chemical signals back and forth.Over time, this disruption causes permanent damage in the brain that leads to Alzheimer's disease and dementia, causing patients to lose their ability to speak, care for themselves or even respond to the world around them.While there is no clear cause of Alzheimer's disease, experts believe it can develop due to genetic mutations and lifestyle choices, such as physical inactivity, unhealthy diet and social isolation.Early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease include forgetting recent events or conversations. Over time, Alzheimer's disease leads to serious memory loss and affects a person's ability to do everyday tasks.There is no cure for this progressive brain disorder and in advanced stages, loss of brain function can cause dehydration, poor nutrition or infection. These complications can result in death.Can You Detect Alzheimer's Early On?The US Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of a blood test which can help diagnose Alzheimer’s disease in adults aged 55 and above.The blood test, known as Lumipulse, can detect amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease and has proven to be a “less invasive option” that “reduces reliance on PET scans and increases diagnosis accessibility.”FDA Commissioner Martin A. Makary said of the landmark decision, "Alzheimer’s disease impacts too many people, more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined."Knowing that 10 percent of people aged 65 and older have Alzheimer's, and that by 2050 that number is expected to double, I am hopeful that new medical products such as this one will help patients."It remains unclear when this test will be available for commercial use across the world.

Viagra Is The Best Existing Treatment For Alzheimer's Disease, Scientists Say

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Viagra Is The Best Existing Treatment For Alzheimer's Disease, Scientists Say