Pharmaceutical Companies Working On 'Memory Pill'

January 20, 2009 6:27 a.m. EST

Miami, FL (AHN) - A so-called "memory pill" that was originally designed to treat Alzheimer's disease could be available in a weaker form over-the-counter in the next few years.

Three pharmaceutical companies are working on their own versions of the drug - AstraZeneca and Targacept are collaborating on a version, and Epix Pharmaceuticals is working on its own. The drugs are aimed at older patients suffering from age-related memory loss.

But the London Telegraph quotes neurologist and former U.S. Food and Drug Administration committee member Steven Ferris predicting that a milder form of the medication could be available for otherwise healthy consumers as a "lifestyle pill."

There is evidence some prescription medication available today is being used to help cognitive function and to improve memory.

Narcolepsy drug Provigil is taken by some students to stay awake while studying, and Ritalin and Adderall XR, drugs taken for Attention Deficit Disorder, are often taken by people without the disorder to help them concentrate.

But Shire, the maker of Adderall XR, told the Times of London that the drug can raise blood pressure, so young people without ADD should not take it.