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Re-activateCertain medications may slow memory loss in people with Alzheimer's disease, particularly if they start taking them before the disease is advanced. And some research suggests that the drugs—memantine (Namenda), and cholinesterase inhibitors such as donepezil (Aricept and generic) and galantamine (Razadyne and generic)—may be more effective when taken together. But some people now take those or certain other medications, including drugs used to treat attention deficit disorder, to "enhance" their cognitive abilities. And others turn to supplements for a mental boost.
Enhancers. There's no evidence that so-called "neuroenhancers" work better than lifestyle measures such as getting enough sleep, taking walks, and engaging your mind, our consultants say. And the long-term risks of those drugs for "normal" patients is unknown. That's why the American Academy of Neurology warns people about using neuroenhancers.
Supplements. There's no point in taking the supplement ginkgo biloba, either. Although the herb is widely touted for its supposed brain-boosting power, results from the largest trial to date, published in December 2009, found that it was no better than a placebo at slowing cognitive decline in older adults.
Is it Alzheimer's or something else? Take a look at the warning signs. And learn about some things that may help prevent mental decline.
This article first appeared in the July 2010 issue of Consumer Reports On Health.
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