A clinical trial is currently underway to explore the potential of benfotiamine in treating early-stage Alzheimer's disease. The Benfo Team Clinical Research is investigating whether increasing thiamine levels in the brain can improve cognitive function in individuals with mild dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
Rationale Behind Benfotiamine
Researchers have observed that patients with Alzheimer's disease often exhibit lower levels of thiamine in brain tissue. Benfotiamine, a synthetic derivative of thiamine (vitamin B1), is being studied for its ability to raise thiamine levels in the brain, potentially mitigating cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's.
Dr. Paayel Patel with Brain Matters Research stated, "Patients with Alzheimer's have been found to have lower levels of thiamine in the brain tissue. And so based on that information, the benfotiamine scientists are looking to increase levels."
Trial Design and Patient Population
The clinical trial is enrolling participants aged 50 to 89 who have been diagnosed with early Alzheimer's disease, including those with mild dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Interested individuals undergo screening to determine their eligibility for the study.
Flora Elterman, a participant in the clinical trial, shared her experience: "Forgetting certain things. Sometimes an hour later it would come to me. And my husband definitely noticed some things. He would say, Flora, this or that."
Participating Locations
The Benfo Team Clinical Research is being conducted in 50 cities across the country, providing multiple locations for potential participants to join the study. Specific locations mentioned include Delray Beach (561-374-8461) and Stuart (772-223-7880) in Florida.
