Work

GABAergic Function in Alzheimer's Disease: Evidence for Dysfunction and Potential as a Therapeutic Target for the Treatment of Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia

Year: 2004

Type: review

Abstract: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by disruptions in multiple major neurotransmitters. While many studies have attempted to establish whether GABA is disrupted in AD patients, findings have varied. We review evidence for disruptions in GABA among patients with AD and suggest that the variable findings reflect subtypes of the disease that are possibly manifested clinically by differing behavioural symptoms. GABA, the major inhibitory neurotransmitter, has long been a target for anxiolytics, hypnotic sedatives, and anticonvulsants. We review the clinical use of GABAergic agents in treating persons with AD symptoms. While newer generation GABAergic medications are now available, they have yet to be evaluated among patients with AD.

Source: The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1177/070674370404900705

Authors: Krista L Lanctôt, Nathan Herrmann, Paolo Mazzotta, Lyla R Khan, Neil Ingber

Institutions: Sunnybrook Health Science Centre, University of Toronto

Language: English

Topic: Dementia and Cognitive Impairment Research

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: Alzheimer's Society