Review suggests trying ginkgo for dementia
Ginkgo biloba has a
small but significant effect on the symptoms of dementia, according to
a review of clinical trials involving the drug.
Ian Maidment, principal pharmacist for mental health
at East Kent Community NHS Trust, who conducted the review, says that
it is an interesting agent, which might have effects comparable to those
of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.
Mr Maidment says that the mode of action and correct
dose of ginkgo for the treatment of dementia has yet to be established
but that it seems to be relatively free from side effects. However, it
is thought to have anticoagulant effects and, therefore, should be used
with caution in patients receiving other anticoagulant drugs. In addition,
trials are needed to establish whether it works synergistically or interacts
adversely with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.
When asked what he would tell patients seeking advice
on whether they should try ginkgo, Mr Maidment said: “I’d say that I would
take it if I had dementia, because dementia is such a debilitating disease
and there are few treatments for it. There is little to lose, so it would
definitely be worth a try. It is difficult to know what to advise patients
about taking ginkgo with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors when there is
so little data about interactions, but I personally would try it.” (Psychiatric
Bulletin 2001;25:353–6.)
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