Posted by linkadge on October 28, 2008, at 18:56:39
In reply to Valproic Acid treats alzheimer, posted by mike1975 on October 28, 2008, at 15:54:40
I honestly don't know how this is called a discovery. The reason being that a similar study reached the same conclusion about 5 years ago. Namely, GSK-3b inhibitors like valproate inhibit the formation of the plaques associated with alzheimers.
Lithium and omega-3 are GKS-3b inhibors and they have the same activity. As does turmeric.The problem is that valproate is not a selective GSK-3b inhibitor. It also not a memory drug.
GKS-3b inhibitors have no intristic memory enhancing effect. They will not enhance or improve memory in healthy subjects and likely not those in general dementia either.
This study only suggests that valproate can inihibit the development of the plaques and tangles. I.e it may have some preventitive effect.
However, some studies show that valproate (and other anticonvulsants) have neurotoxic potential as well. Valproate (and other anticonvulsants are associated with memory impairement. Valproate inhiibts PKC which can slow the formation of new memories. Some studyes also suggest that long term use of valproate in epilepsy is also associated with subtle but progressive cognative deterioration.
If you are really afraid of developing alzheimers, I would use DHA and turmeric. Both of these are likely as strong in terms of their ability to slow plaque formaiton, but they are much safer.
Linkadge
poster:linkadge
thread:859623
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20081027/msgs/859648.html