Top 5 Drugs That Can Help Treat Alzheimer Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Symptoms progress slowly and can interfere with daily activities over time.
Receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s can be distressing. While there is no definitive test or cure for the disease, there are medications available to help manage its symptoms. Here are five drugs commonly prescribed by healthcare providers to assist with Alzheimer’s symptoms.
Aricept
Aricept is an oral medication used to address symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. It belongs to a class of drugs called cholinesterase inhibitors, also utilized for conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body dementia, and Huntington’s disease.
Although Aricept doesn’t cure Alzheimer’s, it can enhance memory, attention, and daily functioning. It may also reduce agitation and aggression in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.
Aricept works by blocking an enzyme to maintain a chemical balance in the brain that aids in learning and memory. Dosage is determined based on individual medical status and response to treatment. The cost of a 30-tablet supply of Aricept may be as high as $542, but using a pharmacy discount card from Buzzrx Discount App can help lower the expense.
Memantine
Memantine is an FDA-approved drug for moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. It blocks the action of glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in the progression of Alzheimer’s.
Glutamate is vital for memory and learning, but excess levels can be detrimental, leading to the death of nerve cells due to overstimulation, known as excitotoxicity, which contributes to Alzheimer’s disease.
By interfering with glutamate activity, Memantine protects nerve cells from excitotoxicity, potentially enhancing cognitive function in Alzheimer’s patients.
This drug can be taken as a syrup or pill, with dosages gradually adjusted over weeks or months. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, confusion, and fatigue.
Remember, Memantine is not a cure for Alzheimer’s, and results vary among individuals. Consult your doctor before considering this medication.
Exelon
Exelon is a prescription medication for treating Alzheimer’s symptoms by elevating acetylcholine levels, a crucial chemical for memory and cognitive functions.
Available as capsules or skin patches, Exelon capsules are typically taken once or twice daily with food, while the patch is worn for 12 hours and then replaced on different body areas on a rotation basis.
Common side effects of Exelon include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, diarrhea, and dizziness. Inform your doctor if you experience any of these side effects for potential alternative treatments.
Antipsychotics
Antipsychotic medications can alleviate symptoms of Alzheimer’s like hallucinations, delusions, and agitation while potentially improving cognitive function and memory.
Commonly used antipsychotics for Alzheimer’s include haloperidol (Haldol), risperidone (Risperdal), and olanzapine (Zyprexa). However, these medications can lead to side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, falls, and fractures.
If considering antipsychotic treatment, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor beforehand.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs typically used for anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. They can help individuals with Alzheimer’s by reducing anxiety and agitation, relaxing muscles, aiding with insomnia, and controlling seizures.
Side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and potential interactions with other medications. Withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and nausea can occur when stopping benzodiazepines. Consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication.
Conclusion
While no cure exists for Alzheimer’s disease, various medications can alleviate symptoms and enhance the quality of life for those affected. Before starting any medication, speak with your doctor to understand the potential risks and benefits.
