How to Start Alzheimer's Medication

For those with family history and firsthand knowledge of Alzheimer's disease and its effect on loved ones, this diagnosis is particularly scary. Medications are available that slow the progression of this condition, though there is nothing that cures it.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit a doctor when you or your loved one's memory loss is coupled with other changes in mental ability. Getting lost, confusion and personality changes in conjunction with greater than normal short-term memory problems could indicate Alzheimer's.

• 2

  Buy a daily pill reminder if a prescription for an Alzheimer's medication is given. Once started, any medication must be taken every day without fail. Leave the pill reminder where it will be seen every evening.

• 3

  Take or give the medication every evening before bed. This is the usual prescription, but some people find they have fewer problems with side effects if the pill is taken with food. Some take the medication shortly after dinner.

• 4

  Start taking or giving the medication on Friday evening if the person involved still works. This should help avoid problems with side effects during the workday. Many of the possible side effects can be particularly unpleasant if they occur while at work. These include, but are not limited to, extreme anxiety, nausea and diarrhea.

• 5

  Maintain an adequate supply of medication. Running out means skipped doses, which if allowed to continue for more than one day could mean the recurrence of side effects when the regimen is resumed.