Alzheimer's Cure

Alzheimer's disease is a condition that many people dread because it strips its victims of their memories and personalities. There is no definitive cure for Alzheimer's, but certain drugs have been proven to slow down the occurrence of cognitive impairments. This slows some of the worst symptoms and allows patients to live normal lives for longer periods of time. Medication, combined with activities that keep the mind stimulated, can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease significantly.

Cholinesterase Inhibitors

• Cholinesterase inhibitors are medications that can improve the levels of certain neurotransmitters in a person's brain. According to the Mayo Clinic, they are effective at improving cognitive function in up to half the number of patients with Alzheimer's. They are sold under the brand names Aricept, Exelon and Razadyne, and must be prescribed by a doctor. Typically, these drugs are used during the earlier stages of the disease. They cause unpleasant side effects in some patients, such as nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.

Memantine

• Memantine is a drug that has been shown to protect brain cells from being damaged by the chemical glutamate. The Mayo Clinic says it is the first treatment to be approved for use with patients who have moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. Its potential side effects include dizziness, delusions and agitation. It is often used along with a cholinesterase inhibitor.

Mental Exercise

• The main symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are linked to a mental decline. The Mayo Clinic says that some scientists believe that mental exercise can promote the growth of more synapses in the brain. These synapses connect neurons and can slow down cognitive impairment. Activities that stimulate the brain should be done throughout a person's life as a way to offer some protection against Alzheimer's disease. Once a person develops Alzheimer's, he should still make it a point to seek mental stimulation rather than give in to the decline.