Alzheimer's disease results in chronic, progressive and ultimately fatal dementia. The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not known, although genetics can play a role in its development. Patients with Alzheimer's have problems with the parts of the brain that control language, memory and thoughts. No cure exists for Alzheimer's but medications can slow its progression and relieve symptoms.
Cholinesterase Inhibitors
The National Institute on Aging notes that one class of drug used to treat Alzheimer's disease is the cholinesterase inhibitor family of medications. These drugs include galantamine, rivastigmine and donepezil. Alzheimer's disease is marked by the gradual decrease of the levels of a chemical called acetylcholine in the brain, which is involved in controlling memory and cognition. Cholinesterase inhibitors block the enzymes that break down acetylcholine, which helps keep acetylcholine at normal levels. Although these medications cannot cure Alzheimer's, they can slow its progression.
Memantine
Another medication often prescribed to treat Alzheimer's disease is called memantine. Memantine is a medication that blocks the action of a brain chemical called N-methyl D-aspartate (also known as NMDA). NMDA causes the release of another chemical called glutamate. When glutamate levels get too high in the brain they can lead to toxicity and the death of neurons. By blocking the effects of NMDA, memantine can reduce glutamate levels and prevent the death of brain cells. Memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors can be prescribed together to treat Alzheimer's.
Psychiatric Medications
A number of medications can be used to treat some of the psychiatric symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. As the Alzheimer's Association explains, although these medications do not treat the disease directly, they can provide relief for some of the emotional and behavioral problems the disease can cause. Antidepressants such as citalopram and fluoxetine can help treat depression and low mood stemming from Alzheimer's. Anti-anxiety medications such as lorazepam can be effective at treating anxiety and restlessness. Hallucinations, aggression, delusions and hostility can be treated using antipsychotics, such as haloperidol and clozapine.
