Effects of daily L-dopa administration on learning and brain structure in older adults undergoing cognitive training: a randomised clinical trial
Lebedev AV, Nilsson J, Lindström J, Fredborg W, Kivipelto M, Lövdén M
Published in Scientific Reports
Methodology
Randomised, parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 100/25 mg L-dopa/benserazide before each of 20 cognitive training sessions in adults aged 65-75
Key Findings
Participants receiving L-dopa improved less in spatial intelligence than placebo (-0.267 SDs; 95%CI -0.498 to -0.036; p=0.024); verbal intelligence did not differ significantly.
Conclusions
Results speak against boosting dopaminergic signalling to enhance learning in healthy older adults - a well-designed null/negative finding.
Limitations
Short 4-week intervention, modest sample, pharmaceutical L-dopa rather than a dietary precursor, healthy elderly only
Outcomes Measured
Compared to the placebo group, subjects receiving L-dopa improved less in spatial intelligence (-0.267 SDs; 95%CI [-0.498, -0.036]; p = 0.024).
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Academic (Karolinska Institutet)
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