Background:
Ginkgo biloba is a commonsymptomatic treatment for cognitive impairment, although data on its efficacy are controversial.
Objective:
The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of standardized Ginkgo biloba extract EGb761® (Tanakan®) on the improvements in cognitive functions over 24 months in a local cohort of patients diagnosed with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI).
Methods:
This multicentre non-interventional study included 500 eligible patients with aMCI treated with 120 mg/day standardized Ginkgo biloba extract EGb761® (Tanakan®). Patients were evaluated using several scales for assessment of cognition, memory, activities of daily living and depression (MMSE, FAQ, CGI, HAM-D) at baseline and every 6 months thereafter for a 24-month period. The median change in MMSE at the 24-month follow-up was the primary outcome of the study.
Results:
A statistically significant increase of 2 points in the median MMSE score was obtained. In patients with other concomitant cognitive disorders, the improvement in MMSE was less significant. Tanakan® improved memory impairment (using the delayed recall test) and the ability to accomplish activities of daily living (mean FAQ score, 1.7); it also decreased the severity of depression (mean HAM-D score, 2.4) at the end of the study. More than 80% of the patients showed at least minimal improvement of their condition as assessed by the CGI-Improvement Scale.
Conclusions:
The administration of EGb761® (Tanakan®) led to a significant improvement of cognitive decline, memory, activities of daily living and depression in subjects with aMCI over 24 months.