Alzheimer's disease Medications

Question 1

What are the types of Medications that can help with Alzheimer’s disease? (hint: Catch My Ass)

Answer 1

1. Cholinesterase inhibitors
2. Memantine
3. Atypical antipsychotics ( (e.g., risperidone, olanzapine)

Question 2

What is the most common cholinesterase inhibitor?

Answer 2

Donepizil

Question 3

Common Uses of Donepizil

Answer 3

prescribed for all stages if Alzheimer’s disease

Question 4

Donepizil Mechanism of Action

Answer 4

Alzheimer’s disease damages neurons that release acetylcholine. Donepezil is a cholinesterase inhibitor. That means it blocks the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. Blocking this enzyme increases acetylcholine levels in the brain.

Question 5

how does donepezil differs from the other cholinesterases inhibitors

Answer 5

Donepezil crosses the blood-brain barrier.

Question 6

Donepizil High Yield Concepts

Answer 6

1. Cholinergic Effects
2. Bradycardia & Syncope (fainting)
3. Drug Interactions
4. Realistic Expectations

Question 7

Donepizil- Cholinergic Effects

Answer 7

can sometimes cause urinary frequency, nausea, and diarrhea. GI issues are the most common complaint with donepezil.

Question 8

Donepizil- Bradycardia & Syncope

Answer 8

This effect is rare, but it becomes more likely if a client is already on medications that decrease heart rate (e.g., beta-blockers and certain calcium channel blockers).

Question 9

Donepizil- Drug Interactions

Answer 9

counterproductive to take it with an anticholinergic medication

Question 10

Donepizil- Realistic Expectations

Answer 10

does not stop or even slow disease progression of Alzheimer’s disease

Question 11

Memantine Common Uses

Answer 11

prescribed for moderate and severe stages of Alzheimer’s disease

Question 12

Memantine Mechanism of Action

Answer 12

it helps regulate glutamate levels in the brain.

Question 13

Memantine High Yield Concepts

Answer 13

• usually well tolerated
  -it does not stop or slow disease progression.