China recently announced that a new drug, meant to potentially treat Alzheimer’s disease, will be available to Chinese patients by the end of this year.
Called GV-971 or “Oligomannate”, it is a seaweed-based drug, administered orally.
What is Alzheimer’s?
- It is a progressive brain disorder that typically affects people older than 65. When it affects younger individuals, it is considered early onset.
- The disease destroys brain cells and nerves, and disrupts the message-carrying neurotransmitters.
- Eventually, a person with Alzheimer’s loses the ability to perform day-to-day activities.
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s, because its exact causes are not known. Most drugs being developed try to slow down or stop the progression of the disease.
