Medicine always has new ground to cover. There are always more efficient and safer ways of treating illness and disease that can be discovered. And sometimes, medical researchers find that an existing medication might have more than one purpose.
That’s exactly what happened recently with a medication that has traditionally been used to help treat men suffering from an enlarged prostate. Through research, they had observed that men who took this drug were less likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than the general population. Now, they understand why this is.
The medication in question is called terazosin. This recently compiled batch of evidence indicates that this and found that this medication, and those that are similar to it, may be able to prevent or delay the onset of Parkinson’s disease. Data from about 300,000 older men was examined and compiled into a single observational study. This research builds upon other research on the topic and corresponds with previous hypotheses that this type of medication may have a positive impact on those that are at risk or in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease. Men taking this medication were up to 37 percent less likely to develop Parkinson’s than someone that was not taking the medication.
They also found that the longer this medication was taken, the more effective it was at preventing Parkinson’s. It is believed that the medication has a neuro protective effect. Just why and how isn’t fully understood yet. Additionally, more research will be needed to find how this medication may impact females. However, because the medication is already approved for use in one area, there’s a good chance that it will be approved soon for additional purposes, pending the completion of this future line of research.
The team, based out of the University of Iowa, published their findings at the beginning of February in the journal JAMA Neurology.
Parkinson’s, and other diseases that cause cognitive decline, can be difficult for a family. When a loved one suffers from something like this, even those that have the best intentions for their loved ones might struggle to give them the appropriate help and care. If you have a loved one dealing with Parkinson’s, it might be time to consider senior care.
That’s where we can help. Our trained care team is well versed in helping those with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other chronic cognitive disorders. And the best part about Paradise In-Home Care (or another, similar service) is that we can provide this help to your family members in their own home. In many cases, an in-home caregiver can be precisely what’s needed to tend to someone’s needs and keep them at home where they want to be… and out of the nursing home.
Not sure what’s best for your specific situation? We can help you get started. One of our care professionals can walk you through the process and help identify what type of care is best. In-home care can be a great resource for some, but not necessarily for everyone. Call today to learn more.
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