A study published in a medical journal entitled Molecular Neurodegeneration suggests that taking anti-epileptic drugs might be beneficial for people who suffer from Alzheimer's disease (AD).
The researchers found that neurons in the brain can be protected by T-type calcium-channel blockers, which are often used to treat epileptics.
"Our data provides implications for the use of this family of anti-epileptic drugs in developing new treatments for neuronal injury, and for the need of further studies of the use of such drugs in age-related neurodegenerative disorders," said Jianxin Bao or Washington University in Missouri.
As a person ages, calcium regulation can change in the brain, which can lead to a decline in cognitive function. The researchers therefore believe chemicals that can help modulate calcium homeostasis could protect neurons.
Unfortunately, AD is considered uncurable today. However, the Mayo Clinic says that family support and affection from friends helps improve the quality of life for people who suffer from dementia.
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