Alzheimer's disease affects many elderly people. Portions of the brain degenerate. This usually results in loss of memory and deceases a person's ability to perform mental functions associated with everyday life. As yet, there is no cure for the disease, but medical research has produced some medications that help people with Alzheimer's disease function better.
Aricept
Doctors prescribe Aricept (generic: donepezil) to treat moderate, mild or severe Alzheimer's disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, the drug does not slow or stop the disease. It can, however, help patients with their mental and thought processes. Side effects with donepezil usage include cramps, lack of appetite, insomnia, constipation, drowsiness, headaches, depression, blurry vision, frequent urination, dizziness, diarrhea, weakness and pain, among other things.
Razadyne
Razadyne (generic: galantamine) may be used in mild and moderate Alzheimer's disease treatment. Galantamine slows the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain. This chemical is broken down by Alzheimer's. Acetylcholine helps the brain work. In order for galantamine to function, it must be used early in treatment because farther along, there may not be enough acetylcholine left to allow it to have an effect. Side effects of galantamine include dry mouth, confusion, breathing difficulties, chest pain, cramps, mood changes, irregular heartbeat, rapid heartbeat, convulsions and skin wrinkling, among others.
Exelon
Exelon (generic: rivastigmine) works the same way as galantamine by slowing the breakdown of acetylcholine, so it, too, must be used early in treatment. It can be taken as a capsule or as a patch on the skin for gradual release into the body. Side effects may include back pain, blurry vision, confusion, seizures, nausea, difficulty in urination, bladder pain, breathing difficulties and lightheadedness or fainting.
Namenda
Namenda (generic: memantine), according to the Mayo Clinic, is the first drug to receive approval for use against later stages of Alzheimer's disease. It can help because it protects cells in the brain. Side effects of memantine may include changes in heartbeat, weight loss or gain, stomach pain, nervousness, dizziness, headaches, swelling in the extremeties---feet, legs, hands, arms---swelling in the face, chest pain and coma, among others.
Member Comments