Promem TM (metrifonate) from the Bayer Corporation

Bayer petitioned the FDA to approve metrifonate in 1997, however, however, respiratory side effects were severe enough that Bayer suspended the application.

In addition to improving cognition and the performance of activities of daily living, clinical trials have shown that it also helps minimize the disruptive behavior common among people with Alzheimer's. In a six-month study by researchers at UCLA's Alzheimer's Disease Center, researchers gave 408 people with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's either a placebo or metrifonate (30 to 60 mg once a day based on their weight). Cognition tests showed that those taking the drug improved significantly. In addition, they also experienced significantly fewer typical Alzheimer's psychiatric and behavior problems, notably less depression, lethargy, and apathy, and fewer hallucinations.

These results were substantiated by more recent research (Shikiar et al, JAGS, 48: 268-274, 2000). Metrifonate is given once a day. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and leg cramps.