alzehimers treatment

Question 1

Flashcard 1:
Q: What is the first line treatment for Alzheimer’s disease in the UK?
A:

Answer 1

According to NICE guidelines, the first-line treatment for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease is usually a group of drugs known as cholinesterase inhibitors. These include donepezil, galantamine, and rivastigmine.

Question 2

Flashcard 2:
Q: How do cholinesterase inhibitors work?
A:

Answer 2

Cholinesterase inhibitors work by preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain that helps nerve cells communicate with each other. This can help improve or stabilize the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

Question 3

Flashcard 3:
Q: What are the common side effects of cholinesterase inhibitors?
A:

Answer 3

Common side effects of cholinesterase inhibitors can include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and more rarely, muscle cramps, headaches, and fatigue.

Question 4

Flashcard 4:
Q: What is the recommended treatment for moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease?
A: d.

Answer 4

NMDA (glutamate) receptor antagonists.
Memantine is often the drug of choice for moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease when cholinesterase inhibitors are not suitable or have not worked

Question 5

Flashcard 5:
Q: How does memantine work?
A:

Answer 5

Memantine works by blocking a chemical in the brain called glutamate, which can damage nerve cells if levels become too high. This can help improve symptoms in some people with moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease.

Question 6

Flashcard 6:
Q: What are the common side effects of memantine?
A:

Answer 6

Common side effects of memantine can include dizziness, headaches, tiredness, raised blood pressure, and constipation.

Question 7

Flashcard 7:
Q: When can combination therapy with a cholinesterase inhibitor and memantine be considered?
A:

Answer 7

NICE guidelines suggest considering combination therapy in people with moderate Alzheimer’s disease who are already on a cholinesterase inhibitor when symptoms progress.

Question 8

Flashcard 8:
Q: What non-pharmacological interventions are recommended in Alzheimer’s disease?
A:

Answer 8

Non-pharmacological interventions such as cognitive stimulation, cognitive rehabilitation, and behavioral therapies are recommended as integral parts of Alzheimer’s disease management.

Question 9

Flashcard 9:
Q: What is cognitive stimulation therapy?
A:

Answer 9

Cognitive stimulation therapy is an evidence-based treatment for people with mild to moderate dementia which involves engaging in a range of activities and discussions in a group setting.

Question 10

Flashcard 10:
Q: What role do carers play in Alzheimer’s treatment?
A:

Answer 10

Carers play an essential role in providing day-to-day support, monitoring the effectiveness and side effects of medications, and helping with non-pharmacological interventions.

Question 11

Flashcard 11:
Q: What is the role of diet and exercise in Alzheimer’s disease management?
A:

Answer 11

While more research is needed, a healthy diet and regular exercise may have a positive impact on brain health and could potentially help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

Question 12

Flashcard 12:
Q: How is the effectiveness of Alzheimer’s disease treatments monitored?
A:

Answer 12

The effectiveness of treatments is usually monitored through regular reviews, which can include discussions about symptoms, side effects, mood, behavior changes, and ability to perform daily activities.