Various forms of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical treatments can arrest the progress of Alzheimer's disease at present. Formulating the best approach requires careful consideration of the best treatment options available. Although no single treatment can alleviate or delay the progression of Alzheimer's, a combination of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical treatments can yield the best results.
Cognitive Function Medication
Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine are the top two types of FDA-approved medications that are used to treat the cognitive function symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, explains the Alzheimer's Association. Cholinesterase inhibitors help maintain acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that facilitates the transmission of neural impulses. Memantine protects brain cells from excessive exposure to glutamate. Glutamate is a neurotransmitter responsible for cell death that is produced excessively as Alzheimer's progresses, notes the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation.
Behavioral Medication
Antidepressants, anxiolytics, and antipsychotics are medications used to treat behavioral symptoms caused by Alzheimer's disease. Antidepressants treat the irritability and depression caused by Alzheimer's; the top two for Alzheimer's are fluoxetine and citalopram. Anxiolytics manage anxiety and overall uneasiness caused by Alzheimer's; lorazepam and oxazepam are the top anxiolytics used for Alzheimer's. Antipsychotics target Alzheimer's symptoms such as belligerence, hallucinations and delusional behavior. Risperidone and aripiprazole are among the top antipsychotic medications used for Alzheimer's, according to the Alzheimer's Society.
Non-Pharmaceutical Treatments
Therapeutic activities tailored to the personal needs and preferences of Alzheimer's patients offer a structured, effective and non-pharmaceutical treatment for the disease. The best therapeutic activities generally reinforce a sense of self-worth, aid in memory retention and may even develop skills that stimulate mental activity.
Light exercise routines such as brisk walking can help prolong physical health despite the gradual decline caused by Alzheimer's. Other beneficial activities include musical appreciation, gardening, cooking, as well as painting and other arts and crafts activities. These therapeutic activities offer opportunities to stimulate brain activity and also create a structured but relaxing ambiance, explains the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation.
Pleasant one-on-one social interaction is another example of a non-pharmaceutical treatment that is very effective in relieving Alzheimer's symptoms such as depression and anxiety. Situations that stimulate memory recall, such as viewing videos of loved ones and significant events, and pet therapy have also proven to be immensely effective. Therapeutic activities achieve the best results when used in tandem with each other and with medications.
