Tacrine
Tacrine is also marketed under the name Cognex. It is a drug which inhibits one of the enzymes in the brain called choline esterase - which leads to accumulation of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This neurotransmitter is thought to be essential in preventing dementias. And thus, Tacrine is used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Tacrine Facts
| Other names | Cognex, Tacrine |
| Chemical formula | C13H14N2 |
| Effects | Small beneficial effect on cognition. |
| Legal status | Classified often as a prescription drug. |
The drug has been widely studied in individuals with a variety of dementias and in a select group of patients has been found to improve cognition, concentration and memory. Why all individuals with dementia don't respond remains a mystery.
Tacrine is poorly absorbed from the gut and thus high doses have to be taken to get any benefit. When high doses are taken, side effects do occur. The adverse side effects of Tacrine include nausea, vomiting, excessive salivation, slow heart rate, urinary retention and possibly seizures.
With the development of newer drugs like Donepezil, the use of Tacrine has decreased.