Alzheimer's Disease Medications to treat Alzheimers

Once a patient is diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, the doctors and specialists will determine how to treat the two types of symptoms involved in the disorder. These are the cognitive symptoms like memory loss and thought processes, as well as behavioral/psychiatric symptoms which come to play in how we feel and act. There are different treatments for both types of symptoms of Alzheimer's disease which will be generally discussed on this webpage. As always, consult with a primary physician or medical specialist for the best course of treatment for a specific case.

Two different prescribed medications are used to treat Alzheimer's cognitive symptoms.  These are Cholinesterase and Memantine, which both affect different chemicals that play a part in carrying messages amongst the brain's nerve cells.

Typically prescribed Cholinesterase inhibitors are Doenpezil, Rivastigmine and Galantamine.  These are used to treat Alzheimer's in varying stages, with Doenpezil approved to treat all stages of the disease with Doenpezil used to treat it in all stages.  These medications work to support communication among nerve cells, and generally delay the worsening of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, with potential better results in specific cases.

As for Memantine or Namenda, it regulates glutamate activity in the brain. Glutamate is involved as a messenger chemical which works with learning and memory functions.  Namenda is used to treat mild to moderate stages of Alzheimer's.

The brand names of the aforementioned treatments are Aricept, Razadyne, Namenda, Exelon and Cognex.  Each has potential side effects to consider as well.

The behavioral and psychiatric symptoms from Alzheimer's disease can be particularly challenging. Many times non-drug treatment approaches can be used such as improving the individual's safety or lowering risk level in their environment. Often times though, the non-drug treatments are not enough, and there are severe cases where the Alzheimer's patient may pose safety risks to themselves or others. In these cases, doctors may choose to prescribe Antidepressant medications, anxiolytics (for anxiety) and Antipsychotic medications.

In Alzheimer's patients with low mood and irritability, Antidepressants such as Celexa, Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft and Desyrel may be prescribed. In those with anxiety or restlessness, anti-anxiety meds such as Ativan or Serax may be prescribed.

Finally, for the patient with delusional behavior, hallucinations and aggressive behavior, Antipsychotic meds may be given. These include Clozaril, Haldol, Zyprexa, Risperdal, Geodon and Abilify.

It's important to note a few things. First, none of the drugs mentioned above for behavior and psychiatric symptoms were specifically approved to treat Alzheimer's, only the specifically-mentioned symptoms. Second, antipsychotic drugs have been shown in certain analyses to bring about a greater risk of stroke and death in adults suffering from dementia. It is extremely important to use the opinions and recommendations of a trusted, reputable physician for getting the proper medication treatments. Doctors and medical specialists will be able to determine which medications are best for the patient's specific situation, and be able to help monitor side effects appropriately, insuring that the patient doesn't suffer harmful consequences or side effects.