Treatment
Treating the challenging behaviors and symptoms of Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s Medications
Five medications, Cognex (1994), Aricept (1997), Exelon (2000), Razadyne, formerly known as Reminyl (2001) and Namenda (2004) have been approved by the FDA to treat people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
The first four drugs are called cholinesterase inhibitors and are usually used to treat people in the early to middle stages of the disease. Cognex is no longer marketed by the drug company. Namenda works in a different way and is generally used to treat people in the middle to severe stages of AD.
These drugs have been helpful for some patients, but they don’t stop or reverse the effects of the disease. They only treat the symptoms of the disease. All drugs may result in side effects.
Researchers are also investigating the effectiveness of a new Alzheimer’s vaccine, various cholesterol-lowering medications and many other experimental drugs in treating, slowing or possibly preventing the disease. This research offers hope for the future, but is still in the early stages.
To learn more about current drug trials, contact the MDRTC at 734-647-7760.
Treating the problem behaviors and symptoms of Alzheimer’s
Medications are also available to help manage common behavioral symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s, such as hostility, wandering, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances and hallucinations. Families should consult their physicians about treatment options.
The Alzheimer’s Association can provide information on non-medical approaches to help manage these difficult behaviors. Visit the Alzheimer’s Association Web site or contact your local chapter by calling 800-272-3900.
