2006-08-29 18:18:00
CBS

(CBS) NEW YORK A clinical study in our area may offer hope for people suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Doctors are studying a chemical that comes from something called Chinese club moss. It may actually help patients think and remember better.

The pills contain a chemical called Huperzine a. It's a Chinese herb that's also known as "qian ceng ta." It contains a molecule called a cholinesterase inhibitor -- the same thing that's in many prescription Alzheimer's treatments.

Dr. Mary Sano of Mount Sinai School of Medicine says, "It's a drug much like other drugs. Mount Sinai is part of a large national trial looking at whether or not Huperzine improves thinking and memory in Alzheimer's disease. They're enrolling patients now, and the study will last 6 months.

Dr. Sano says, "We get to see if it improves memory. We get to see if it improves attention, and it improves overall the way the person functions.

Like any drug, Huperzine has potential side effects, and it's not right for everyone. But in general, experts believe the herb is safe. And, they hope it'll offer Alzheimer's patients another treatment option.
Dr. Mary Sano says, " Huperzine a is a very exciting compound."

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