Guo_2013_Am.J.Alzheimers.Dis.Other.Demen_28_363

AIM: Efficacy and safety of Cistanche tubulosa glycoside capsules (CTG capsule, Memoregain((R))) for treating Alzheimer's disease (AD) were studied.
METHODS: A total of 18 patients with AD administered with Memoregain((R)) for 48 weeks were assessed for drug efficacy by Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), Blessed Behavioral Scale, and Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scales.
RESULTS: The MMSE score was 14.78 +/- 2.51 at baseline and 14.06 +/- 4.26 at study completion. While changes in ADAS-cog score before and after 48 weeks of treatment were statistically insignificant, the score improved, deteriorated, and remained unchanged in 10, 7, and 1 patients, respectively. The ADL and CGI scores showed no significant difference from baseline. All adverse reactions were mild. CONCLUSION: After Memoregain((R)) treatment, patients with AD showed no obvious aggravation of cognitive function, independent living ability, and overall conditions but were stable throughout the study. Comparison with other long-term medications with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors suggests that Memoregain((R)) has a potential to be a possible treatment option for mild to moderate AD. Large trials with bigger population are required to confirm.