Arecoline, a cholinergic agonist, improves memory in patients with Alzheimer's disease when given by continuous intravenous infusion. The degree of improvement follows an inverted U-shaped relation to dose, and is maximal at a dose at least ten-fold below that producing toxicity. A plasma concentration was identified that achieves maximal cognitive improvement in responding patients. Physostigmine, a cholinesterase inhibitor, given by continuous intravenous infusion improved cognition in some subjects with Alzheimer's disease, but was associated with many adverse effects. Administration of haloperidol, a dopamine antagonist, produced greater cognitive and motor effects in young than in aged healthy men, suggesting that responsivity of the brain dopamine system is reduced with age in humans.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01AG000133-10
Application #
3789765
Study Section
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
10
Fiscal Year
1992
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
National Institute on Aging
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code