‘Memory pill’ for the forgetful
US scientists have invented a pill that can boost memory. The drug CX717 belongs to a family of compounds called ampakines and works by boosting the brain chemical glutamate that makes learning and recall easy.
UK trials on 16 sleep-deprived volunteers showed it improved wakefulness and mental ability.
Its creator, Dr Gary Lynch from the University of California, told New Scientist it could be used to treat jet lag and diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Manufacturer Cortex is considering CX717 as a possible treatment for narcolepsy - excessive daytime sleepiness; and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) - a condition which impairs a child’s ability to concentrate.
It could also be taken by healthy people as a pick-me-up. But it will have to undergo further clinical trials before going on sale.
Dr Lynch explained how the drug works. “What it’s doing is causing the neurons to communicate with each other a little better. “As you get tired, communication between brain cells begins to fail. When you take the pill, the communication is better.”
He said the drug appeared to have no side effects and because it was not a physical stimulant, like amphetamines, users would still be able to sleep.
Reference - BBC News
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