Chapter 20: Alzheimer’s disease Flashcards
Alz disease
neurodegenerative disorder linked to a deficiency in the brain neurotransmitter acetylcholine and a higher level of glutamine. (too much glutamine causes damage to the brain)
It develops gradually and gets progressively worse over time. It is known to account for over 60% of all cases of dementia. In the advanced stages of the disease, people exhibit loss of bodily functions alongside other symptoms, what finally leads to their death. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition though medication may help improve the symptoms and perhaps increase life expectancy to a certain extent.
s/sx of alz
• Memory Loss
• Problems with comprehension, speech and writing
• Withdraw from social activities
• Agitation
goal of symptomatic tx of alz
Several prescription drugs are currently approved by the FDA to treat people who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Treating the symptoms of Alzheimer’s can provide patients with comfort, dignity, and independence for a longer period of time and can encourage and assist their caregivers as well.
Memantine (Namenda)
- NMDA receptor antagonist
a. memantine (Namenda).
MOA: Modulates the effects of glutamate (the major excitatory transmitter in the central nervous system) at NMDA receptors which Improves cognitive functioning in moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s disease by possibly slowing nerve damage. (Memantine blocks glutamate)
Use: Treatment of symptoms of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease
SE: nausea, vomiting, dizziness and aggression
Donepezil (Aricept)
- Cholinesterase Inhibitors
a. donepezil (Aricept).
MOA: Inhibits acetylcholinesterase and increases availability of acetylcholine at the cholinergic synapse.
Use: Mild to moderate dementia of Alzheimer’s. Only benefits 1 in 12 patients. No convincing evidence of significant improvement. Benefits must outweigh the risks.
SE: Cholinergic Side Effects!! nausea, vomiting, dypsea, diarrhea. Dizziness and headache. Bronchoconstriction.
