Vitamin E Treatment in Alzheimer's Disease

By Hilary Henegar

As the population ages and pressure increases to find treatments and preventative measures for Alzheimer's Disease, scientists are searching for and developing ways of stemming the growth of the devastating condition that now affects over 4.5 million Americans and 364,000 Canadians. Research supports the theory that vitamin E treatment in Alzheimer's Disease is particularly effective, pointing to the preventative role of antioxidant vitamins and minerals-like carotenoids and vitamins A and E-because they protect nerve cells in the brain from exposure to abnormally high levels of free radical damage.

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies are associated with Alzheimer's Disease due to a number of factors, including early damage that occurs to the cells that are located in the part of the brain that controls appetite. As the disease progresses, persons with the disease are increasingly unable to choose, prepare, or consume foods that are nutrient-rich, nor do they intake adequate levels of water to remain hydrated. Vitamin and mineral levels are further reduced by long-term use of Alzheimer's Disease medication, which depletes the body of necessary nutrients.

A study reported in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1997 on vitamin E treatment in Alzheimer's Disease in conjunction with selegiline, a drug prescribed to Parkinson's patients and a known antioxidant, found that instances of one of more of the following were reduced: patients ability to perform daily activities including using the toilet, grooming themselves, and preparing meals; the progression of dementia; necessary institutionalization; and death. Unfortunately, no results were found that linked the vitamin E or selegiline to improvements of memory or cogitation. In the study, vitamin E and selegiline were given together and separately, but there appeared to be no difference in the results.

Vitamin E treatment in Alzheimer's Disease may therefore benefit patients as a preventative measure, as well as a means for slowing down the condition in those already affected. Test subjects were given 2000 IU of vitamin E; as yet, though, ideal dosage amounts have not been confirmed. Doctors recommend patients take 400 IU two times a day in order to reach a beneficial, yet safe level of vitamin E in the brain for achieving desired antioxidant affects.