Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Vagus Nerve Stimulation As an Adjunctive Neurostimulation Tool in Treatment-resistant Depression
Published on: January 7, 2019
Pharmacological Therapy for Apathy in Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Amir A Sepehry1, Michael Sarai2, Ging-Yuek R Hsiung1
11University of British Columbia,Department of Medicine,Division of Neurology,Vancouver,Canada.
Introduction:
Apathy is highly prevalent in Alzheimer's disease (AD), but whether pharmacotherapy is effective in managing apathy is unclear.
Methods:
To assess the efficacy of pharmacotherapy for apathy in AD we searched for randomized controlled trials (RCT) and aggregate data reporting on apathy in several search engines, reference lists of articles, and reviews. Demographic characteristics and relevant data were extracted to assess apathy.
Results:
Fifteen RCTs' were examined, and 11 were used in aggregate meta-analytic statistics. Drugs included were cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, and psycho-stimulants. We found no significant treatment effect in favour of any of the drugs, and the effect-size estimates under a random effect model were heterogeneous. Most RCTs had a high attrition rate and used the NPI apathy subscale to measure apathy.
Conclusion:
The lack of an effect could be explained by methodological limitations, publication bias, and heterogeneity.
Related Concept Videos
Antidepressant Drugs: MAOIs and Other Agents
Parkinson's Disease: Treatment
Parkinson's Disease is primarily a result of the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. The cornerstone of its...
Alzheimer's Disease: Overview
The clinical diagnosis of AD hinges on the presence of memory and other cognitive impairments. Biomarkers, such as changes in Aβ and tau...
Alzheimer's Disease: Treatment
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
Drug Therapy
Antianxiety Medications

