Alzheimer's disease refers to the most common form of dementia, where people gradually experience a decline in their social and intellectual functioning. The Mayo Clinic says that signs of Alzheimer's disease include memory loss, difficulty thinking abstractly and trouble finding the right word. In some instances, Alzheimer's disease leads to mood swings, depression, anxiety and aggressiveness. There are drugs that exist for Alzheimer's disease.
Galantamine
Galantamine, commonly sold as Razadyne or Reminyl, is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine, a chemical necessary for memory, reasoning and thinking. Specifically, Drugs.com says that galantamine treats the mild to moderate dementia that is associated with Alzheimer's disease. Patients take a tablet one to two times daily. Some of its less serious side effects include weight loss, headache, vomiting, nausea, dizziness and fatigue. Some of galantamine's serious side effects include chest pain, weakness, confusion, black or bloody stools, and decreased urination. In some instances, galantamine causes confusion and sweating. Contact a physician when galantamine leads to these side effects.
Memantine
Memantine, commonly sold as Namenda, is another medication that reduces the chemicals in the brain that lead to Alzheimer's disease. Specifically, this medication treats the moderate to severe dementia that accompanies Alzheimer's disease. It is a liquid or tablet that patients take daily or as prescribed. Drugs.com says that memantine's less serious side effects include joint pain, anxiety, aggression, easy bleeding or bruising, weight loss, and dizziness. In some instances, memantine also leads to a fast heart rate, frequent urination, joint pain and swelling of the hands or feet. Some of memantine's serious side effects include confusion, hallucinations, chest tightness, cough, seizures, fainting and difficulty breathing. Additional effects include increased blood pressure. Signs of increased blood pressure include blurry vision, severe headache, chest pain, seizures, numbness and difficulty concentrating. Call a doctor when memantine leads to these effects.
Rivastigmine
Rivastigmine, commonly sold as Exelon, is a cholinesterase inhibitor that treats Alzheimer's disease. MedlinePlus explains that it increases acetylcholine (a brain chemical), so that memory and thinking improve. This medication is a capsule or liquid taken two times a day. Some of rivastigmine's less serious side effects include stomach pain, weight loss, constipation, diarrhea, confusion, tremors and dizziness. In some instances, rivastigmine leads to trouble falling asleep and lack of energy. A few of rivastigmine's serious effects include fainting, bloody vomit, depression, seizures, aggression and painful urination. Call a doctor when rivastigmine leads to these effects.
