Author(s)

Brigitte Grass-Kapanke, Arija Busmane, Andris Lasmanis, Robert Hoerr, Reiner Kaschel

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Objective: To assess effects of EGb 761® on cognition and quality of life in subjects with very mild cognitive impair-ment. Methods: We randomized 300 subjects aged 45 to 65 with cognitive complaints and low functioning (more than one standard deviation below appropriate norm) in at least one cognitive test to double-blind treatment with once daily 240 mg EGb 761® or placebo for 12 weeks. Results: The exploratory intention-to-treat analysis showed significant im-provement (p < 0.025, one-sided) beyond practice effects for EGb 761® in a measure of attention (Vienna Test System - Work Performance Series) and trends in favour of EGb 761® in measures of memory (Wechsler Memory Scale III - Faces I, Appointments Test – delayed recall), and perceived physical health (SF36 - factor score Physical Health). Cognitive effects were more pronounced and more consistent (p < 0.025 in 4 of 5 tests) in subjects with lower memory function at baseline. Specifically, practice effects in the more demanding tests were attenuated or absent in these sub-jects. Conclusion: Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® improved cognitive functioning and aspects of quality of life in sub-jects with very mild cognitive impairment.

Ginkgo Biloba, EGb 761®, Mild Cognitive Impairment, Memory, Concentration, Randomised Controlled Trial

B. Grass-Kapanke, A. Busmane, A. Lasmanis, R. Hoerr and R. Kaschel, "Effects of Ginkgo Biloba Special Extract EGb 761® in Very Mild Cognitive Impairment (vMCI)," Neuroscience and Medicine, Vol. 2 No. 1, 2011, pp. 48-56. doi: 10.4236/nm.2011.21007.