Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found that suvorexant, a drug prescribed for insomnia (often under the brand name Belsomra) reduces levels of the proteins hyperphosphorylated tau and amyloid in the brain. These proteins are linked to Alzheimer's disease.
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The 20 mg participants' amyloid levels remained lower after 24 hours, while their tau levels increased back to their baselines.
Why Might Suvorexant Lower Alzheimer's Risk?
Researchers admitted they aren't exactly sure yet what the connection is between suvorexant and amyloid and tau protein levels, nor their respective impacts on dementia and Alzheimer's, but they do have some theories.
That said, to be clear, this is not yet a miracle cure.
"This study does not support using suvorexant and dual orexin receptor antagonists to prevent or delay Alzheimer’s disease," Dr. Lucey explained to Healthline, adding that it merely may "support or justify additional studies giving the drug for longer periods and to test that it prevents/delays Alzheimer’s disease symptoms."
Related: 14 Ways to Prevent Dementia and Alzheimer's, According to Neurologists
Dr. Meredith Bock, MD, a board-certified neurologist and the chief medical officer at Remo Health, previously explained to Parade, "Dementia can alter the brain's natural sleep-wake cycle, which is the 'internal clock' that tells your body when to feel awake and when to go to sleep. When a person is living with dementia, their brain's chemistry and networks change. For some people living with dementia, these changes can impact their body's regulation of this natural rhythm."
It may be cyclical as well: Scientific studies have previously found that trouble falling or staying asleep, poor sleep quality and not sleeping long enough can all increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline. However, some other sleeping pills have been shown to potentially increase risk of dementia, so much more work needs to be done here—and you should absolutely talk to your own doctor before starting on any medications to help you sleep.
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Related: Talking to Your Doctor About This One Thing Could Significantly Decrease Dementia Risk
Sources
Dr. Bruce Albala, Ph.D.Dr. Meredith Bock, MDDr. Brendan Lucey, MD"Suvorexant Acutely Decreases Tau Phosphorylation and Aβ in the Human CNS." Annals of Neurology. "Suvorexant tablets." Cleveland Clinic."Two types of drugs you may want to avoid for the sake of your brain." Harvard Health Publishing. Read More Details
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