The FDA gave Exelon (rivastigmine), already approved for treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's dementia, the added indication of mild-to-moderate Parkinson's dementia. The drug, marketed by Novartis, became the first agent approved for the Parkinson's condition.
Steven Galson, M.D., director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said dementia associated with Parkinson's disease differs from Alzheimer's dementia. The most common features of Parkinson's dementia are dysexecutive syndrome and impairment of visuospatial functions.
According to the FDA, 0.2% to 0.5% of those 65 or older are affected by Parkinson's dementia. "Until now, there has been no treatment that has been shown to be effective specifically for the dementia associated with Parkinson's Disease," Dr. Galson said.
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