Ambroxol: an Emerging Therapeutic Strategy for the Treatment of Dementia Associated with Parkinson's Disease

Objective: Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative condition. This study aimed to gather and analyze scientific evidence supporting the use of ambroxol as an alternative therapy for dementia associated with PD, beyond its conventional indications. Theoretical Framework: PD treatment is based on dopaminergic medications, such as levodopa, which alleviate motor symptoms but do not prevent disease progression. Ambroxol, traditionally used for respiratory diseases, has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neurological properties, notably increasing the activity of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase (GCase) and reducing the accumulation of α-synuclein. Methods: An integrative review of the scientific literature was conducted using international databases such as PubMed, with English descriptors: “Parkinson’s Disease,” “Neurodegeneration,” “Ambroxol,” “Dementia,” “α-Synuclein,” and “Glucocerebrosidase Enzyme.” Recent studies addressing the use of ambroxol in neurodegenerative diseases were included. Results and Discussion: The studies indicate that ambroxol crosses the blood-brain barrier and exerts neuroprotective effects in the central nervous system. An increase in GCase activity was observed, promoting the degradation of α-synuclein and reducing its neuronal toxicity. These effects are promising for patients with PD and related dementias. Research Implications: The use of ambroxol represents an innovative and low-cost approach, going beyond symptomatic control. If validated by large-scale clinical trials, it may be included in future therapeutic guidelines for the management of PD and related dementias. Originality/Value: This study reinforces the translational value of a drug already established in clinical practice, proposing its application in neurodegenerative diseases based on new molecular findings. The research contributes to expanding therapeutic strategies for PD.