Alzheimer's/Dementia Drugs

Question 1

What is dementia

Answer 1

Chronic, progressive and degenerative disorder of the brain

Has no cure but can be improved and disease can be slowed

Question 2

Cholinesterase inhibitors

Answer 2

Prevent breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain
Only useful for mild to moderate dementia
Delays memory loss and improves functional ability

Question 3

donepezil

Aricept

Answer 3

Take at bedtime
Drug may take several weeks to take effect
Increased risk of falls

Question 4

memantine

Ebixa

Answer 4

Give in low concentrations
Neurotoxin at high concentrations
Effective with Alzheimer’s

Question 5

Assessments prior to starting therapy

Answer 5

Assess
MMSE
Perform simple tasks 
Attention span
Memory
Cognitive status

Question 6

Interactions of cholinesterase inhibitors

Answer 6

Cardiac drugs
Flucanzole
Dextromethorphan

Question 7

Side effects of cholinesterase inhibitors

Answer 7

GI upset
Mild diarrhea 
Loss of appetite 
Drowsiness
Joint pain
GI bleed
Hallucinations 
Incontinence
Dysrhythmias

Question 8

Other cholinesterase inhibitors

Answer 8

Rivastigmine (Exelon)

galantamine (Razadyne)

Question 9

Adjunct therapy

Answer 9

Antipsychotics to control delusions, paranoia, hallucinations and other psychotic symptoms

risperidone, OLANZapine

Anti anxiety and mood stabilizers to help depression and daily functioning

sertaline, citalopalopram, fluoxetine