Mild cognitive impairment

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Treatments and drugs

By Mayo Clinic staff

There is no cure for mild cognitive impairment. Treatment of coexisting conditions, such as high blood pressure or depression, may help reduce cognitive problems. Scientists are searching for a treatment that may delay or prevent the progression to Alzheimer's disease or other dementias.

Alzheimer's drugs
During the first year of a three-year study, the rate of progression from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's was much lower in the people who took donepezil (Aricept). However, that difference disappeared by the end of the study.

An Alzheimer's drug called galantamine (Razadyne) increases the risk of sudden death from heart attacks and strokes when used in people who have mild cognitive impairment.

High blood pressure drugs
People who have mild cognitive impairment are also more likely to have problems with the blood vessels inside their brains. High blood pressure can worsen these problems and cause memory difficulties. That's why it's important to keep your blood pressure at normal levels.

Antidepressants
Depression is common in people who have mild cognitive impairment, and depression, itself, can cause memory problems. Treating depression may help improve memory, while making it easier to cope with the changes in your life.

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Aug. 26, 2008

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