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Can Supplements and Medications Halt Dementia?
Published: Jul 26, 2024
With dementia on the rise, many wonder if vitamins or medications can stop it in its tracks.
The Role of Vitamins and Antioxidants
Antioxidant vitamins like vitamin E and C have been studied extensively for dementia prevention. Unfortunately, research shows they don't significantly lower dementia risk. While vitamin E might help slow progression in diagnosed patients, it's not recommended for prevention in healthy individuals.
Medications: A Mixed Bag
Some medications, like statins, have been explored for dementia prevention, but results are inconclusive. Statins may reduce dementia risk due to their effect on cardiovascular health, but more research is needed. Other drugs, such as cholinesterase inhibitors, show no preventive benefit in those without dementia.
Unproven Interventions
Despite interest in hormone therapy and NSAIDs for dementia prevention, no solid evidence supports their use. Studies show that these interventions don't effectively prevent cognitive decline or dementia. In some cases, they may even pose additional health risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, current evidence doesn't support vitamins as preventive for dementia.
Statins may lower risk due to heart health benefits, but more research is needed.
Hormone therapy isn't recommended as it's not proven to prevent dementia.
Key Takeaways
While some therapies show promise, none are proven to prevent dementia in healthy individuals.
References
- Kane RL, Bulter M, Fink HA, et al. Interventions to prevent age-related cognitive decline, mild cognitive impairment, and clinical Alzheimer's-type dementia.
- Gorelick PB, Scuteri A, Black SE, et al. Vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia: a statement for healthcare professionals from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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