These Two Existing Drugs May Boost Brain Health, Scientists Say

A clinical trial testing a diabetes medication and an insulin nasal spray has found that both drugs, in combination and alone, safely tackle different aspects of mild cognitive decline that is often seen in early Alzheimer's disease, without any harmful side effects.

We know Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia are incredibly complex conditions, and multiple treatment approaches are likely needed to better manage them.

The two medications tested in this trial target several different biological processes: Empagliflozin, an existing diabetes drug, reduces inflammation, which has been linked to Alzheimer's onset , among other things. The insulin nasal spray, which delivers insulin straight to the brain, has also been shown to keep brain cells healthy.

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