The Caring Corner®
A Guide to Medications Used to Treat Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating condition that affects the memory, thinking and behavior of those living with it. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are medications that can help slow its progression and manage some of its symptoms. In this blog post, we will explore the various medications used to treat Alzheimer’s, their side effects and how they can help improve quality of life.
Cholinesterase Inhibitors
The most common type of medication prescribed for people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease are cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs). These drugs work by preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine, which is a chemical in the brain that helps with memory, learning and communication. ChEIs can help improve thinking, memory and behavior in some people living with Alzheimer’s. Commonly prescribed ChEIs include donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon) and galantamine (Razadyne). Side effects from these drugs may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite or weight loss.
Memantine
Memantine (Namenda) is another drug that can be used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. It works by blocking certain receptors in the brain that cause neural damage when too much glutamate is released. This drug can help improve cognitive functioning in some people living with Alzheimer’s but does not usually provide benefits for individuals with mild forms of the condition. Side effects from memantine may include dizziness, confusion and headache.
Antidepressants & Anti-Anxiety Drugs
Alzheimer’s patients often experience depression and anxiety as part of their condition; therefore they may be prescribed antidepressants such as citalopram (Celexa) or sertraline (Zoloft). If an individual is experiencing more severe levels of anxiety, they may also be prescribed anti-anxiety drugs such as lorazepam (Ativan). Side effects from these drugs range from drowsiness and dry mouth to headaches and nausea.
Conclusion
It is important to note that all medications used to treat Alzheimer’s have potential side effects and should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Additionally, no one treatment plan works for everyone; it is best to discuss all available options with your doctor so you can make an informed decision about what treatment plan is best for you or your loved one’s specific needs. Despite there being no cure for this progressive disease yet, medications play an important role in helping slow its progression while improving quality of life.
If you need caregivers to assist with home care or elder care in Durham or Chapel Hill, call us. Experienced caregivers and CNAs can provide simple companionship or may help people with dementia, Alzheimer’s, on hospice and bed bound patients. From a few hours per visit to 24/7 care.
