Treatment options

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, including declines in memory and judgement, are caused by a decrease of a chemical in the brain called acetylcholine. There are medications which improve the amount of this and may slow symptoms.

They cannot reverse the condition or stop the progression of dementia. Eventually they will be less effective, but for a period they might help with memory, communication and awareness.

Medication name: Donepezil
How it works: Slows down acetylcholine breakdown
Type: Standard tablet, dissolving tablet, liquid
Used: All stages
Potential side effects: Vomiting, diarrhea, nausea

Medication name: Rivastigmin
How it works: Slows down acetylcholine breakdown
Type: Capsule, skin patches, liquid
Used: Early to middle stage
Potential side effects: Vomiting, diarrhea, nausea

Medication name: Galantamine
How it works: Slows down acetylcholine breakdown
Type: Tablet, slow-release tablet, liquid
Used: Early to middle stage
Potential side effects: Vomiting, diarrhea, nausea

Medication name: Memantine
How it works: Protects nerve cells from the effects of too much glutamate
Type: Tablet, dissolving tablet, liquid
Used: Middle to late stage
Potential side effects: Headaches, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea.

There is no concrete evidence of medications reducing the symptoms of vascular dementia. Blood pressure or cholesterol-lowering medications may be prescribed to reduce the risk of strokes or other vascular damage.

Because Lewy body dementia is associated with Parkinson’s disease, medications used to manage tremors or stiffness may be prescribed.

Currently there are no medications that show a significant improvement in symptoms of frontotemporal dementia.

Dementia causes changes in mood and behaviour. Anxiety, depression, delusions and sleep disruptions are common with the diagnosis. While non-drug options should be explored first, your provider may prescribe antidepressants, antipsychotics or sleeping aids.

• Dementia: Symptoms and treatment