Donepezil improved cognition and behavior.
Dementia with Lewy bodies is characterized by parkinsonism and by deficits of visual perception, executive function, and attention. Because of presynaptic cholinergic loss in the brainstem and forebrain, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such as rivastigmine have been studied, with some demonstration of efficacy. This multicenter, placebo-controlled, manufacturer-funded study of donepezil was conducted to investigate its safety and efficacy in this patient population.
The 140 patients were randomized to receive placebo or donepezil at 3, 5, or 10 mg for 12 weeks. Researchers assessed cognition (Mini-Mental State Examination [MMSE] and other specific tests), behavior, caregiver burden, and global function. Rate of cognitive response (MMSE chang…
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresRoyaltiesTextbook of Traumatic Brain Injury, 2nd and 3rd editions
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesNorth American Brain Injury Association (Board Member); National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (Chair of Data Monitoring Safety Board for study of donepezil on cognition after traumatic brain injury)
DisclosuresRoyaltiesTextbook of Traumatic Brain Injury, 2nd and 3rd editions
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesNorth American Brain Injury Association (Board Member); National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (Chair of Data Monitoring Safety Board for study of donepezil on cognition after traumatic brain injury)