Date of Award

2018

Degree Type

Selective Evidence-Based Medicine Review

Degree Name

Master of Science in Health Sciences - Physician Assistant

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

Department Chair

John Cavenagh, MBA, PhD, PA-C

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this selective evidence based medicine review is to determine whether or not “herbal medicine has an effect on the cognitive function of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease over the age of 50”.

STUDY DESIGN: Review of three double-blind, randomized control trials published between 2003 and 2015. All studies were published in English language in peer reviewed journals.

DATA SOURCES: Three randomized control trials were found via PubMed.

OUTCOMES MEASURED: The outcomes measured include changes in Alzheimer’s symptoms based upon a neurologist, improvement of Alzheimer’s symptoms based on ADAS-cog and CDR-SOB clinical rating scale, and Alzheimer health related quality of life based on a 20-item questionnaire.

RESULTS: Akhondzadeh et al (2003) demonstrated a significant reduction in Alzheimer’s symptom scores after treatment with herbal medicine, Salvia officinalis extract, with a p value of <0.0001. Tajadini et al (2005) demonstrated a significant reduction in Alzheimer’s symptom scores after treatment with herbal medicine, Davaie Loban, with a p value of <0.001. Zhang et al (2015) demonstrated a significant reduction in Alzheimer’s symptom scores after treatment with herbal formula, Yishen Huazbuo decoction, with a p value of <0.05.

CONCLUSIONS: Results of the three studies demonstrate that herbal medicine is an effective treatment in individuals over the age of 50 for the cognitive improvement of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Two studies recommend that further studies should be done with longer follow-ups and larger sample sizes to more confidently confirm the findings.

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