Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease is a brain disease marked by the deterioration of mental function, including problems with memory. Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that can cause agitation, aggression and changes in behavior. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, there are methods of treatment that may improve the quality of life.

Prior to Treatment

• Prior to developing a treatment plan, a doctor will consider the patient's overall health, extent of the disease, current medications, allergies, and patient and family preferences. A doctor will review these factors to offer a treatment plan that will improve or maintain the patient's ability to function.

Cholinesterase Inhibitor

• Aricept is a cholinesterase inhibitor, which works by preventing the breakdown of brain chemicals that are used for memory. Inhibitors work by increasing the level of brain chemicals that are usually lacking in Alzheimer's disease patients. This medication can be used as to treat all stages of Alzheimer's disease. Exelon and Razydne are newer medications that also prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, but the medication is usually provided as a treatment option in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. Cognex is similar to these medications and slow acetylcholine breakdown.

  Some of the side effects of cholinesterase inhibitors include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, exhaustion, difficulty sleeping and changes in weight.

Glutamate Medication

• Namenda is a moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease treatment but works differently than other treatments available. Alzheimer's disease protects the brain and it regulates glutamate, which is an essential brain chemical involved in the functions of learning and memory. Glutamate can be excessive in the brain of those with Alzheimer's disease and Namenda can help regulate glutamate, which improves brain function and ability to process memories.

Antidepressants and Antianxiety Medication

• Alzheimer's disease patients often suffer from depression, aggression and agitation. To combat these behavioral symptoms, some patients with Alzheimer's disease take antidepressants or antianxiety medications to alter behavior and reduce symptoms. Side effects of medication can include difficulty sleeping, tremors and nausea.

Sleeping Medication

• Many patients with Alzheimer's disease have a state of confusion in the evening. This behavior is called sundowning and patients begin to be agitated and restless as the day progresses, which often leads to wandering at night and insomnia. Some Alzheimer's disease patients can reduce this reaction and the symptoms.

Changes in Living Habits

• If medication does not work or if an Alzheimer's disease patient exhibits a significant change in behavior, evaluate ways to modify a patient's environment. It may be possible to circumvent some symptoms and changes in behavior.