These blood thinners may have an unexpected benefit for Alzheimer’s patients
A study from the Karolinska Institutet suggests that newer NOAC blood thinners may slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients who also have atrial fibrillation. Researchers found that patients on NOACs performed better on cognitive tests compared to those on warfarin or no anticoagulants.
Why it matters
This finding could significantly improve treatment protocols for patients suffering from the dual burden of heart rhythm issues and dementia.
People who have both atrial fibrillation and Alzheimer's disease may experience slower cognitive decline when treated with newer NOAC blood thinners, according to research from Karolinska Institutet published in the European Heart Journal .
Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm condition in older adults and also affects many people living with Alzheimer's disease. Doctors often prescribe blood thinners to these patients to reduce the chance of blood clots and stroke. Earlier research has suggested that anticoagulant treatment may lower the risk of developing dementia, but far less is known about whether these drugs influence cognitive decline after Alzheimer's disease has already been diagnosed.
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