Guanfacine treatment for prefrontal cognitive dysfunction in older participants: a randomized clinical trial

• DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2018.05.033
• Publication Date: 2018-05-31T02:12:03Z
• Authors: Nicole M. Barcelos; Peter H. Van Ness; Allison F. Wagner; Martha G. MacAvoy; Adam P. Mecca; George M. Anderson; Mark Trentalange; Keith A. Hawkins; Mary Sano; Amy F.T. Arnsten; Christopher H. va...
• Keywords: Guanfacine

This study evaluated the effect of alpha-2A-adrenoceptor agonist guanfacine on prefrontally mediated cognitive functions, as well quality life and global function in healthy older participants. One hundred twenty-three participants aged 75 years were randomly assigned to 0.5 mg, 0.1 or placebo daily for 12 weeks. The primary outcome measure was change z-score 6 prefrontal executive tasks over weeks (PEF6). Neither dose improved PEF6 relative placebo. rate mean (95% confidence interval) 0.270 (0.159, 0.380) placebo, compared with 0.121 (0.011, 0.232) mg (p = 0.06, placebo) 0.213 (0.101, 0.324) 0.47). Among common adverse events, only dry mouth significantly more frequent Guanfacine failed ameliorate individuals, who cognitively normal age.