Statement
on the UK Study of the Effects of Donepezil
Alzheimer
Society of Canada
June
25, 2004
For
further information:
Debbie Krulicki, Alzheimer Society of Canada
1-800-616-8816, ext. 232
pr@alzheimer.ca
A
study on the effects of donepezil on people with mild
to moderate Alzheimer's disease entitled Long-term donepezil
treatment in 565 patients with Alzheimer's Disease(AD2000):
randomised double-blind trial appears in the June
26, 2004 issue of The Lancet.
In
response to the study, Dr. Jack Diamond, Scientific
Director of the Alzheimer Society of Canada, states: "The
experience and observations of many clinicians and caregivers
over the last few years and the basic science theory
behind donepezil (Aricept) and other cholinesterase inhibitors
have testified to the apparent effectiveness of these
drugs, particularly in the earlier stages of the disease.
More studies and especially full scale clinical trials
are needed before abandoning a therapeutic approach that
is still supported by many people with the disease, clinicians
and caregivers alike."
In
Canada, the Canadian Consensus Conference on Dementia
Guidelines state that while a cure would be the ideal
goal, reasonable treatment goals include halting or slowing
the disease, improving memory, maintaining function,
improving mood and quality of life for the person and
the caregiver. Earlier clinical studies have concluded
that Aricept and other cholinesterase inhibitors (Exelon,
Reminyl) meet these goals in some individuals and are
deemed safe and effective by Health Canada.
The
Alzheimer Society of Canada believes it is important
that all treatment options deemed safe and effective
by Health Canada be available and accessible to all those
who might benefit from them. The Society is in support
of treatments that enhance the quality of life of those
with the disease and their caregivers.
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