Study: Certain NSAIDs Lower a Key Protein Tied to Alzheimer's Disease

Several commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) appear to lower the level of a protein believed to be related to Alzheimer's disease, according to a study reported in the August 1 issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation.

Alzhemier disease is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid beta protein (Abeta) in areas of the brain that have jurisdiction over memory and language.

Researchers from the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida found that two of the six most commonly used NSAIDs -- ibuprofen and indomethacin -- significantly lowered the levels of Abeta42 (a form of amyloid beta protein) in mice at doses achievable in humans.

The researchers found that two other NSAIDs -- diclofenac and piroxicam -- slightly reduced Abeta42 levels.

However, the researchers found the NSAIDs meclofenamic acid and flurbiprofen to be the most effective at decreasing Abeta42 levels. The authors also noted that flurbiprofen, currently in clinical trials for the treatment of prostate and colon cancer, does not induce the toxic gastrointestinal or renal side effects associated with some NSAIDs.

"Although there is a strong rationale for selective targeting of Abeta42, no amyloid beta therapeutic has been sufficiently tested in humans to determine its possible efficacy in the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease," concluded the researchers. "Such evidence will not be forthcoming for a number of years."

In their accompanying commentary, Drs. John Cirrito and David Holtzman of Washington University in St. Louis said the study provides "exciting new insights and avenues for Alzheimer's disease treatment."

"While it is not going to be easy, there remains much hope that the amyloid hypothesis of Alzheimer's disease will be tested and that truly effective therapies…can be developed," stated Cirrito and Holtzman.

Other sources: Journal of Clinical Investigation