How acetylcholinesterase inhibitors affect bone health in older adults with Alzheimer's disease
Effect of Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors on Bone Metabolism and Fracture Risk Factors among older adults with mild to moderate Alzheimer's Disease
This study is looking at how a common Alzheimer's medication might help older adults with mild to moderate dementia by possibly reducing their risk of bone fractures, and we're inviting people over 50 to join us in finding out if it really makes a difference.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10916432 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AchEIs) on bone metabolism and fracture risk in older adults suffering from mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The study aims to understand how these medications might reduce the risk of fractures by examining their effects on bone mineral density, bone turnover markers, and overall bone quality. Participants aged over 50 will be recruited and randomly assigned to receive either the medication donepezil or a placebo, allowing researchers to compare outcomes effectively. The findings could lead to improved fracture prevention strategies for this vulnerable population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults over 50 years old who have been diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients who are under 50 years old or those with severe Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of fractures and improve overall health outcomes for older adults with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that acetylcholinesterase inhibitors can reduce fracture risk, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Richard Hsang-Yang — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Lee, Richard Hsang-Yang
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.