This is a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study investigating whether the medication Ambroxol is safe,effectiveness and well tolerated for the treatment of Lewy Body Dementia (LBD). Currently the main treatments for patients with LBD target symptom management. However, none of the medications treat the underlying cause of the disease, which includes the accumulation of protein in the brain. Therefore, even if patients respond well to symptomatic treatment, they continue to deteriorate. Therefore, the purpose of the current study is to make sure Ambroxol is safe to take long term and to test the effects of Ambroxol in treating the cognitive impairments associated with LBD by modifying the underlying causes of the disease.
There will be a total of 15 people participating this this study, which will last 52 weeks. Over the study period patients will undergo clinical, neuropsychological and neuroimaging assessment to assess changes.
Probable diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia
Age greater than 50 years old
Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score: 24-18
Patients must have a responsible caregiver = 4days/week
Evidence of stroke or other neurological condition
Any other serious underlying condition or brain disorder that can account in part of in full for the clinical presentation (i.e. cancer or unstable cardiac disease etc.)
Contraindication to MRI e.g. presence of metal fragments in head or eye, implanted electrical devices or conductive implants or devices (pacemakers, neurostimulators).
Unable to undergo DAT-scan