Donepezil is a drug approved for the treatment of Alzheimer's, also used for mild cognitive impairment. A search of the UCLA School of Nursing, however, it shows the harmfulness for subjects with the genetic variant BChE-K. A discovery that shows the importance of genetic screening in the definition of the best treatment.

Mild cognitive impairment is a transitional state caused by age, similar to dementia. It has symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer's disease, which is why many doctors prescribe donepezil to treat. A 2005 study supported the treatment, but the Agency for Food and Medicines had never approved. A new analysis of 2005 data seems to agree Agency.

The researchers analyzed the data of 2005, looking for a correlation between genetic variant BChE-K and changes in cognitive function. They measured the cognitive impairment of individuals with two tests for dementia: the Mini-Mental State Examination and the Clinical Dementia Rating. Those with BChE-K treated with donepezil had worsened more than those who had taken the placebo.

The discovery proves the importance of genetic testing in order to provide personalized therapy. In the future you may use the prenatal screening test to identify possible future problems, so as to intervene in time and in the best way.

Source: newsroom.ucla.edu