Physostigmine For Alzheimer's Disease

    Physostigmine is a cholinesterase inhibitor and preserves acetylcholine levels in brain cells. Physostigmine, taken orally, is broken down rapidly in the blood, so that its effects are not very long-lasting [152]. Because physostigmine has such a short life in blood, it has not been found to be effective in alzheimer patients when given orally [153-154]. However, physostigmine is most effective orally when given for long periods of time,up to 6 weeks [155].
    Physostigmine effectively enhances cognitive ability when it is administered intravenously. Studies using intravenous physostigmine show good to excellent results in more than half of all patients [156-157]. When physostigmine is administered in transdermal patch,its effectiveness is comparable to the intravenous route[158].
    Physostigmine has been found to increase blood flow to the brains of alzheimer patients [159]. As you may recall, blood flow is reduced in the brains of alzheimer patients.

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