[Pharmacological treatment].

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by synaptic dysfunction and neuronal loss.
• Current therapeutic strategies for AD aim to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
• The need for effective and safe pharmacological interventions remains critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current pharmacological treatment alternatives for Alzheimer's disease.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEI), Souvenaid, and Ginkgo biloba.
• To specifically address the controversy surrounding Ginkgo biloba's use in AD and its regulatory approval.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of pharmacological treatments for Alzheimer's disease.
• Analysis of studies on acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEI).
• Review of clinical trial data and regulatory assessments for Souvenaid and Ginkgo biloba.

Main Results:

• Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEI) offer symptomatic relief in mild to moderate AD.
• Souvenaid, a nutritional supplement, shows potential in specific patient populations.
• Ginkgo biloba's efficacy remains debated, despite European Medicines Agency approval, with mixed clinical trial results.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacological options for AD, including AChEI and nutritional supplements, provide varying degrees of benefit.
• Ginkgo biloba's role in AD management requires further clarification due to conflicting evidence.
• Continued research is essential to develop more effective treatments for Alzheimer's disease.