The effectiveness of gingko, a complementary medicine traditionally
used in some countries to treat circulatory problems, as a treatment
for early dementia will soon be studied by London researchers but
in a far different way than most trials. Scientists will study 250
patients over 55 in a local setting by their own physicians rather
than a typical hospital trial.
Why did scientists alter their typical
research methods?
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Often, medical trials have concentrated on patients in a hospital
setting whose health symptoms are much more advanced.
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Researchers believe gingko may prove more effective if prescribed
in a community setting, where patients' symptoms are usually
less severe.
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The trial helps researchers uncover whether patients taking
gingko sooner in the process may make it even more effective.
Scientists believe gingko causes blood vessels to dilate, thin
blood, and improve its flow to the brain, making it less likely
to clot. Some believe gingko may also have antioxidant effects,
like protecting nerve cells, which suggests the slowing down the
degenerative process of dementia. Those who participate in the study
will receive either 60 mg of gingko extract or a placebo along with
their daily medicinal regimen for memory loss as well as visits
in which scientists will examine the patient's quality of life,
memory and cognitive functions.
Some 700,000 people are currently affected by dementia in the U.K.
and 60 percent of them have already been diagnosed with Alzheimer's
disease. Researchers are hoping gingko may provide a cheaper alternative
to conventional medicines, with fewer of the potential side effects.
EurekAlert
August 19, 2004
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