The second drug, Dimebon, is an allergy drug used in Russia 20 years ago. A Lancet [subscription required] article in July reported that over 26 weeks of treatment, Dimebon significantly improved memory, thinking, and overall functioning in 68 Alzheimer?s patients, compared with a 66-member control group. Although researchers don?t know exactly how Dimebon does this, it may work by protecting mitochondria?the powerhouses of cells?from injury, says Rachelle Doody, the study?s lead author and a neurology professor at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. A phase 3 trial for the drug began recruiting participants in June.
reference:? http://discovermagazine.com/2009/jan/018
