CHICAGO: Tests show just a six-week course of commonly available tablets leads to a marked improvement in mental function.
Montelukast appears to work by reducing inflammation in a part of the brain associated with learning and memory.
It is the latest drug to be “repurposed” – used to treat a different condition than it was originally intended for.
Experts said the exciting discovery gives hope to hundreds of thousands of people who will be struck down with dementia.
They believe the pill could hold the key to providing the first “safe and durable” treatment for old age.
The breakthrough came after researchers found it boosted the memories of older rats.