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Double-Approval for Generic Namenda

Two manufacturers have received tentative US-FDA approval to sell generic Namenda (memantine). That means substantial savings for people with dementias such as Alzheimer's.

Senior takes pill that disolves on the tongue.

The FDA just approved orally disintegrating donepezil tablets (Aricept). They dissolve on the tongue, without having to be swallowed whole. In addition, they are generic, promising to be less expensive once manufacturing begins.

In related news, a new form of Aricept has been accepted by the FDA for review. This "Extended-Release Aricept" contains a higher 23 mg. dose, meant for more advanced stages.

VIDEO + In-Depth Article

Overuse of antipsychotic medications to treat dementias such as Alzheimer's is an ongoing challenge. It is proving difficult to overcome. Hear arguments on the ways that simple attention to daily care and an understanding of people's lives can make all the difference.

Reagan: Get to a Clinical Trial

President Ronald and First Lady Nancy Reagan

VIDEO + TRANSCRIPT

Michael Reagan, son of President Ronald Reagan, gets the word out regarding Alzheimer's clinical trials. 50,000 participants are needed for 75 trials concerning dementias such as Alzheimer's.

The Power of Clinical Trials

VIDEO + TRANSCRIPT

If someone asked you to name the greatest medical invention of the 20th Century, what would you say?

Side Effects Of Dementia Drugs

Medications for dementias such as Alzheimer's

Drugs to help memory in dementias such as Alzheimer's may have the exact opposite effect in certain people. In addition, many physicians are simply unaware of other interconnected side-effects of these powerful drugs. Read about these new findings by Dr. S. Gill, an Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-term Care Career Scientist.

Exelon Patch: Less is Better

The Exelon Patch, generically called rivastigmine

EXELON ALERT: Rivastigmine, known in the U.S. by the brand name Exelon, is often delivered via skin patches. Lower doses improve cognition with fewer serious side effects than higher doses. Read what researchers have found in an updated review.

Axona medical food treatment for Alzheimer's

VIDEO

Axona is a brand new medical food for treating Alzheimer's, which is the most common form of dementia. It is regulated by the FDA. Axona works by providing an alternative energy source for brain cells.

Biggest Fine in History

The gavel is lowered, passing judgement on the largest fine in U.S. history.

Eli Lilly pleaded guilty to promoting the antipsychotic Zyprexa for treatment of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, in elderly people. The $1.4 billion penalty includes the largest corporate criminal fine in U.S. history.

New research into antipsychotic drugs commonly prescribed to Alzheimer's patients concludes that the medication nearly doubles risk of death over 3 years. Guidelines recommend only using them for short periods of time.