Statin Drug May Slow Alzheimer's

Preliminary research suggests that the cholesterol-loweringdrug atorvastatin (Lipitor) may help boost thinkingability and control psychiatric symptoms in patients withmild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD). The studyincluded 67 AD patients who received either atorvastatin orplacebo. The patients were evaluated using standardmeasures of cognitive function, psychiatric symptoms, andthe ability to navigate common activities of daily living. Theywere also tested for changes in blood cholesterol levels.The study, which was conducted at the Sun HealthResearch Institute in Sun City, Ariz, revealed that "dailyadministration of 80 mg of atorvastatin calcium significantlyreduces circulating cholesterol levels and may have a positiveeffect on the progressive deterioration of cognitivefunction and behavior anticipated in mild-to-moderate AD,"the researchers said. Two larger, multicenter trials are currentlyunder way to further investigate the possible benefitsof atorvastatin treatment in patients with AD.