Alternative Treatments for Dementia: Exploring Your Choices
In the battle against Alzheimer's disease, several medications are available to help manage symptoms and improve a person's quality of life. These treatments fall into two categories: those that aim to slow the progression of the disease and those that address its symptoms [1].
Cholinesterase inhibitors, such as donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine, are commonly prescribed for mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. These drugs work by increasing acetylcholine levels, a chemical essential for memory and cognition, but do not stop the disease from progressing [3][5]. Common side effects of these inhibitors include nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, insomnia, and headache [2][3][4].
Donepezil, for example, is known for causing nausea, diarrhea, headache, and insomnia [4]. Rivastigmine may cause similar side effects and has cautions such as bradycardia and gastrointestinal ulceration [3]. These inhibitors are usually taken for 6 to 12 months where benefits are most visible [1].
Galantamine, another cholinesterase inhibitor, is prescribed for mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease and can cause side effects like vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea [6].
Memantine, on the other hand, is used in moderate to severe Alzheimer's or when cholinesterase inhibitors cannot be taken, often later in the disease course [1][3][5]. This medication may cause constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, and balance problems. It should be used with caution in patients with epilepsy or seizures and may interact with certain medications like barbiturates and anticholinergic drugs [3][5]. Memantine can also help reduce symptoms like delusions, aggression, and agitation in later stages [5].
However, it's important to note that doctors generally do not recommend combining memantine with cholinesterase inhibitors due to lack of evidence supporting combined use [5].
It's crucial to remember that all these drugs do not cure Alzheimer's but may slow symptom progression and help with cognition and behaviour in some patients [1][5]. Patients should be monitored for side effects, and medication adjustments made as necessary [5].
In the search for a cure, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has provided accelerated approval for aducanumab, a disease-modifying medication for Alzheimer's disease that targets the protein beta-amyloid and helps reduce amyloid plaques [7]. This drug may target the underlying cause of Alzheimer's disease and slow its progression.
For those without insurance or facing financial difficulties, low-cost options may be available. A person can contact drug companies directly to ask about reduced-price options for medications like Namenda, Namzaric, and Aricept. Additionally, nonprofit organisations can provide information on whether a person may be eligible for financial help with prescription costs [8].
Several prescription programs exist that may help with costs, including BlinkHealth, ConnectiveRx, Pan Foundation, Eagle Pharmacy (EyeRx Direct), GoodRx, NeedyMeds, RxHope, Partnership for Prescription Assistance, PharmacyChecker, Medicare, RxOutreach, and others [8].
In conclusion, understanding the medications available for Alzheimer's disease, their side effects, and potential costs is essential for patients and their caregivers. By working closely with healthcare providers, patients can make informed decisions about their treatment options and seek out financial assistance when needed.
- Retargeting these medications for health-and-wellness advertisements may help raise awareness about the available options for managing Alzheimer's disease, as contextual advertisements can be effective in reaching those seeking relevant information.
- Paxlovid, a drug used for treating other medical conditions, is not directly related to Alzheimer's disease, but understanding its influence on neurological disorders could potentially provide insights valuable to Alzheimer's research.
- Despite the various treatments available, such as memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors, patients with cancer or other serious medical conditions might not be suitable candidates for Alzheimer's medications due to the potential interaction between these drugs and their ongoing treatments.
- In light of the ongoing battle against Alzheimer's, it is crucial for Medicare and nonprofit organizations to provide financial assistance for expensive medications like Namenda, Namzaric, and Aricept, ensuring that patients with neurological disorders and health-and-wellness concerns can access necessary treatments.
