Donepezil in vascular dementia: a randomized, placebo-controlled study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Vascular dementia (VaD) poses a significant challenge in cognitive healthcare.
• Effective treatment options for VaD are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy and tolerability of donepezil in managing vascular dementia.
• To compare the effects of different donepezil dosages against a placebo.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 616 patients with probable or possible VaD.
• Patients received either donepezil (5 mg/day or 10 mg/day) or a placebo for 24 weeks.
• Cognitive function was assessed using the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale and global function using the Clinician's Interview-Based Impression of Change-plus version.

Main Results:

• Both donepezil 5 mg and 10 mg groups showed statistically significant improvements in cognitive function compared to placebo (p < 0.003).
• Improvements in global function were also observed in donepezil-treated groups versus placebo (p = 0.008).
• Withdrawal rates due to adverse events were low across all groups, indicating good tolerability.

Conclusions:

• Donepezil treatment resulted in significant improvements in both cognitive and global functioning in patients with vascular dementia.
• The study supports donepezil as an effective and well-tolerated therapeutic option for vascular dementia.