A clinical trial is offering hope for individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease by exploring the potential of vitamin B1 (thiamine). The Benfo Team Clinical Research is investigating whether increasing thiamine levels in the brain can benefit patients with mild cognitive impairment or early dementia.
Thiamine Deficiency in Alzheimer's
Researchers have observed that vitamin B1 does not effectively enter the brain in individuals with early 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 Participant Criteria
The clinical trial is being conducted in 50 cities across the country and is designed for individuals aged 50 to 89 with early Alzheimer's disease, including those with mild dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Participants undergo initial testing to determine their eligibility for the trial.
Participant Experience
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."
How to Participate
Individuals interested in participating in the clinical trial can find more information and contact the research locations. The study aims to address the unmet need for effective treatments in the early stages of Alzheimer's by exploring the therapeutic potential of benfotiamine.
