Negative argument for debate with V. O. Emery for J Neural Transmission : Alzheimer's disease: Are we intervening too late? No we are not

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) represents a major public health challenge. It is the most common cause of dementia, the worldwide prevalence of which will double every 20 years in the foreseeable future. It would be good if it were possible to treat AD early to diminish its impact, but current evidence does not support early intervention. Vitamin E was no more effective than placebo in a study of vitamin E and donepezil against placebo in mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Vitamin E is associated with a higher rate of haemorrhagic events than is placebo. Neither donepezil nor galantamine has been shown to be helpful in retarding progression from MCI to AD. Gingko biloba was ineffective in delaying t..