Common Anti-Seizure Drug Prevents Alzheimer's Plaques From Forming in Breakthrough Study

Northwestern University researchers have discovered that a common anti-seizure medication can prevent the formation of amyloid plaques — the hallmark of Alzheimer's disease — in a breakthrough that could transform the treatment landscape for the most devastating neurodegenerative condition affecting tens of millions worldwide. The finding is particularly significant because the drug is already FDA-approved and widely available, meaning it could potentially be repurposed for Alzheimer's prevention far more quickly than a newly developed medication. The study arrives as the Alzheimer's crisis continues to grow, with the disease now affecting an estimated 6.7 million Americans and costing the healthcare system hundreds of billions of dollars annually.