Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment Update

Alzheimer's disease-a progressive condition that many times results in an individual becoming permanently disabled-is on the rise in the United States. Social Security disability benefits may be available to help those who are unable to work as a result of early-onset Alzheimer's disease.

The recent failure of clinical trials for a drug developed by Eli Lilly, semagacestat, caused a setback in the field of research for Alzheimer's. The disappointment was only deepened by the worsening conditions that were brought on by a drug they had hoped would help patients with Alzheimer's.

It is raising questions now concerning the amyloid hypothesis, a leading theory in what causes Alzheimer's and how it can be treated. Researchers now wonder if the amyloid hypothesis may be the wrong direction for treating Alzheimer's.

It was believed that Alzheimer's is brought on by an accumulation of beta amyloid in the brain, which is a toxic protein. If the beta amyloid could be reduced, which is what the drug developed by Eli Lilly was supposed to do, treatment could begin early.

The hope of early treatment is that it could slow or stop the progression of the disease. While semagacestat did reduce the levels of beta amyloid, patients' conditions actually worsened. They were unable to take care of themselves and experienced greater memory loss. In addition, it raised the risk of skin cancer.

If you have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, you should contact a Social Security disability lawyer who can determine if you are eligible for Social Security disability benefits.

Get a FREE Social Security disability guide and avoid the common mistakes many claimants make during their application or appeal. If you or your loved is suffering from a severe physical or mental disability, contact The Law Offices of LaVan & Neidenberg, P.A. 1-888-234-5758