Dietary supplement shows memory benefits in people with vascular cognitive impairment, study claims
Published 18 July 2012
An off-the-shelf dietary supplement could have memory benefits for people with mild vascular cognitive impairment according to research presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conferenc
It found that participants who took 500mg of oral citicoline twice a day for nine months had a slight but not significant improvement in memory while those not taking it declined. Scientists believe citicoline may increase the availability of certain neurotransmitters, including acetylcholine which is involved in memory process.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
Professor Clive Ballard'This supplement is a long way from being a viable treatment for people with vascular cognitive impairment. The benefits shown in the study are minimal at best and only relate to memory, not touching on other symptoms related to the condition.
'There are currently no treatments for people with vascular dementia despite the fact that there are more than 130,000 people living with the condition in the UK. Research into new drugs are essential if we are to help people to live well with the condition and ultimately find a cure.'
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society
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Notes to editors:
- One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
- Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
