Marseille 2007
| Abstract #436 - Memory Enhancing Effects of Methylphenidate in Patients with HIV Infection and Memory Dysfunction | ||||
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Session: 6.29: Posters A (Poster) on Monday in Chaired by Authors: Presenting Author: Dr Francisco Fernandez - University of South Florida , United States |
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| Additional Authors: Dr Joel Levy, Dr Todd Wills , Dr Lynnette Menezes, Dr Brian Giunta, Dr Jun Tan, Dr John Sinnott, | ||||
| Aim: To examine the ability of HIV patients with memory problems to utilize a structured cognitive rehabilitation program, involving a multiple subject notebook, and, additionally, the contribution of treatment with methylphenidate to enhance cognitive performance associated with this program. | ||||
| Method / Issue: Twenty patients with memory impairment from a community HIV clinic were randomized to either receive the cognitive rehabilitation training with adjunctive methylphenidate (N=10) or with placebo (N=10). All participants received four weeks of training and an additional four weeks of memory aid utilization, while undergoing blinded medical treatment. Ability to benefit from the training was assessed with practical memory tasks, as well as measures of memory functional self-perception. Measures were taken at baseline and at the end of the utilization period. | ||||
| Results / Comments: A trend of improvement in function as assessed by the practical measures, as reflected by amount and quality of information entered into the memory notebook, was noted. There was also significant improvement in memory test performance in those receiving the active medication methylphenidate. | ||||
| Discussion: The findings replicate and further substantiate the benefit of methylphenidate for the treatment of HIV-related memory impairment, this time as it affects everyday memory function. These results also support the encouragement of the use of memory aids such as note-taking and written schedules in HIV patients with cognitive dysfunction. The utilization of such practical maneuvers can enhance a positive adaptation to this disorder, promoting independence in medical regimen adherence and continuation of vocational pursuits. Patients should be encouraged to discuss emergent memory concerns so that early detection of these can be met with effective cognitive and medical countermeasures. | ||||
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