"British Study Sees Scant Value in Alzehimer's Drug Aricept," according the New York Times headline. Indeed, the latest study, which asked whether Aricept is a cost-efficient treatment in the British government-sponsored system, confirms what we already knew: we need better Alzheimer's medicines.
But until then, in light of the latest finding, we are concerned that family-member caregivers may see the headlines and, on their own, discontinue use of a drug that may, even marginally, help a loved one.
So it is important to note that this study, while valid, was an examination of a broad public health policy issue, and not a stand-alone efficacy study. In fact, the report did find that patients on Aricept scored somewhat higher on mental tests.
"The most important message is that this study should stimulate policy debate and not dictate individual treatment decisions," says William H. Thies, Alzheimer's Association Vice president for Medical and Scientific Affairs. "No one should change their Alzheimer medication under any circumstances without careful consultation with their doctor."
My question to the study authors would be: If you had a loved-one with Alzheimer's disease, knowing that some patients do score slightly higher on mental tests, would you or would you not prescribe Aricept to that person?
