THA--historical aspects, review of pharmacological properties and therapeutic effects

The authors reviewed historical data in the development of THA, as well as recent data on its pharmacological properties and therapeutic effects on cognitive dysfunction. A medline search was conducted to identify the trials conducted with THA in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. The findings seem to lend support to some palliative action of THA, especially at higher doses, but in these doses about 2/3 of the patients experience significant adverse reactions. The significance of these findings is discussed, with emphasis on the their relevance for the management of AD patients.