Do OTC sleep aids increase risk for dementia and Alzheimer's disease?

1/9/2016

Dan Carcione of Fox 2 Now is reporting on a new study suggesting that the use of over the counter sleep aids increases risk for dementia in elderly subjects. Prescription sedatives such as diazepam promote sleep by increasing inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. Hyperactivity in the hippocampus has been linked to amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI), which is thought to be a form of prodromal Alzheimer's disease (AD). Interestingly, an antiepileptic agent called levetiracetam, which has been shown to attenuate this hyperactivity, is currently being investigated in a Clinical Trial as a means of improving cognitive function in patients with aMCI and preventing its progression to full blown AD.

Link to original story on Fox 2 Now

Link to clinical trial of antiepileptic levetiracetam

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