Cholinergic neurotransmission has long been implicated in the
development of depression. In this study seven patients with Alzheimer's
disease were given oral oxotremorine, a long-acting cholinergic agonist, to
assess the drug's effects on cognitive function. There were unexpected
depressive reactions in five of the seven patients; three patients dropped
out of the study because of the side effects. Cardiovascular effects of the
drug were negligible, but its effect on memory and cognition remains
unknown because of the small number of subjects who completed the
study.Abstract Teaser