Abstract
Background
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is generally considered a transitional stage between normal aging and AD dementia. This study aimed to analyze the efficacy of Di-Huang-Yi-Zhi (DHYZ) formula in treating amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment (aMCI) for the patients in high altitude area (Qinghai Tibet Plateau).
Method:
A total of 106 patients in Shigatse, Tibet were randomly allocated into two groups. One group were to receive DHYZ decoction (150 ml each time, twice a day), the other group were to have aniracetam capsule (200 mg each time, three times a day) ,with 53 patients in each group. Changes in neuropsychological scales including mini-mental state examination (MMSE), Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA), Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog), the Barthel Index for activities of daily living (ADL) and TCM symptoms were detected during a 12-month treatment period. After one year follow-up, the conversion rate of AD was observed.
Result
There was no significant difference between the two groups in baseline characteristics and scale scores (P > 0.05). Compared with the aniracetam group, the DHYZ group showed statistically higher MMSE and MoCA score and lower TCM score at the 9-month and 12-month. In addition, the ADAS-Cog and ADL scores in DHYZ group at 12-month were lower than that in the aniracetam control group. After one year follow-up, the conversion rate of AD in DHYZ group was 10% (5/50), and aniracetam group was 15.69% (8/51). The conversion rate of AD in DHYZ group was significantly lower than that in aniracetam group.
Conclusion
DHYZ formula can improve the cognition behavior and global function of patients with aMCI, it can also delay the conversion to AD. This is represents a new treatment option for the patients.