Memory Boosters, Yes? You Decide.

An individual's memory decreases along with the coming of age.

And as Singapore prepares herself to face an aging population, modern medical and scientific technological advancements are paving the way for miracles to work - especially in the field of geriatric neurology - to help maintain her current pool of skilled and experienced individuals to drive her economy forward.

In a recent article published by the Daily Telegraph in London, an unlisted drug originally designed to help treat Alzheimer's could well be adapted and licensed for sale in a weaker form within the next few years for the purpose of boosting one's memory.

The drug, which was reported to have 'cognitive-enhancing effects', is aimed at treating patients with age-related memory loss.

Indeed, this is something which Singaporeans of all ages could expect to look forward to.

Dr Steven Ferris, a neurologist and former committee member of the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) welcomed the move.

"My view is that one could gain approval provided you showed the drugs to be effective and safe. It could be a huge market."

However, question remains about the safety and effectiveness of these engineered drugs in light of the Quetiapine saga four years back after scientific journal reports found that the drug, which was largely used to treat Alzheimer's, did actually worsened a patient's illness by speeding up the rate of declination.

Currently in Britain, there is anecdotal evidence that mind-improving drugs are already being consumed by healthy users despite being warned of the possible risks of high blood pressure and alike, following continual consumption.

Provigil, used to treat narcolepsy, is being taken by some students to help keep them awake while Adderall XD and Ritalin, both of which are used in the treatment of attention deficit disorder, are being used to help promote concentration.


Alex Dino