Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease

No treatment can stop AD. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several drugs that may help some people in the early and middle stages of the disease. These drugs include tacrine (Cognex), donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), and galantamine (Reminyl). Because of side effects, tacrine is rarely used today.

These drugs are cholinesterase inhibitors that slow the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain. Acetylcholine is a chemical in the brain that carries messages between nerve cells. These drugs may help some people with AD with memory and thinking.

Other kinds of medicines are used to help control behavioral symptoms of AD such as sleeplessness, agitation, wandering, anxiety, and depression. Treating these symptoms often makes persons with AD more comfortable and makes their care easier for caregivers. Drugs used include antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anxiolytics.

Nondrug treatments include assuring that the person with AD has a healthy diet, exercise, social activities, regular medical care, and a safe environment. The use of memory aids, such as calendars, lists, and written directions, can be helpful for people in the earlier stages of AD. Caregivers can learn behavioral management methods to help cope with problem behaviors.