HEALTH ADVICE – DRUG TREATMENT FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

Alzheimer's disease is caused by a loss of brain cells, probably related to an imbalance in the chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) in the brain. Treatment is aimed at supporting patients and carers by providing information about the illness and highlighting potential sources of assistance. Depression, poor sleep, agitation and behavioural disturbance can all be helped by medicines.

Various types of therapy are used to try to stimulate Alzheimer's patients. These include: psychological methods, art therapy, music therapy, playing with toys. Some health professionals try to encourage patients to reminisce about past memories as a way to reduce depression without the use of drugs.

Support for the carer may also involve respite care to give them a break from their often demanding routine. Joining a carer support group can also be very helpful.

Considerable research work has been devoted to Alzheimer's disease in recent years. Although a cure is still a long way off, treatments like donepezil (Aricept) galantamine (Reminyl) and rivastigmine (Exelon) are now available and have modest beneficial effects for some patients. These medicines act on the chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) in the brain, and should be prescribed and monitored by a specialist. There is also modest evidence that the food supplement gingko biloba can be helpful in improving mental function in Alzheimer's disease.

Is there controversy over availability of drugs?

Most certainly. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) says that donepezil, rivastigmine and galantamine should only be used to treat Alzheimer's once it has progressed to its moderate stages. Campaigners argue patients in the early stages of Alzheimer's should also have access to the drugs.

If you would like to know more about Alzheimer’s disease you can always talk to us to ask advice, either come in to see us or telephone on 01535 634727

or email us at info@crosshillspharmacy.co.uk