Do you have a loved one, or have you recently been diagnosed with a type of dementia? Like with any illness, one of your first questions may be, “Are there medications that will cure this disease?”

Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia. However, there are several medications on the market to help manage dementia and its symptoms. These treatments can help improve your loved one’s quality of life and offer them with greater comfort and stability.

Here, we’ll look at each of these medications in detail, explaining how they work and the benefits they offer.

Medications for treating dementia

Let’s start by looking at the medications that change the course of dementia and slow its progression. These treatments tackle the root causes of dementia to improve thinking skills and overall quality of life for those living with the disease.

Amyloid-targeting treatments

Anti-amyloid treatments are used to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, including dementia. 

They work by reducing beta-amyloid, a protein that forms plaques in the brain. Amyloid targeting works at different stages of plaque formation and can help early stage Alzheimer’s patients slow down cognitive decline.

Examples of Amyloid-targeting approaches

• Donanemab (Kisunla™): This IV medication is given every four weeks and delivers medicine straight into the bloodstream. It’s approved by the FDA for treating early Alzheimer’s disease and has shown promise for people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia who have high levels of beta-amyloid in their brains.
• Lecanemab (Leqembi®): This is another IV treatment given to patients every two weeks. It’s specially designed to reduce beta-amyloid levels and is approved to treat early Alzheimer’s disease.

These are just two of the many examples of amyloid-targeting treatments.

Importance of pre-treatment genetic testing for Amyloid-targeting

In some cases, these treatments can trigger serious allergic reactions, ARIA, and other side effects. It’s important to undergo pre-treatment genetic testing to see if the patient is at risk before starting amyloid-targeting treatments.

Cholinesterase Inhibitors

Cholinesterase inhibitors are medications that help increase levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for memory and learning. In Alzheimer’s disease patients, acetylcholine levels are often lower, which can lead to memory loss and cognitive difficulties.

By blocking the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, these medications help keep more available in the brain.

Examples of Cholinesterase inhibitors

• Rivastigmine (Exelon)
• Galantamine (Razadyne)
• Donepezil (Aricept)
• Tacrine (Cognex)

Potential side effects

While these treatments can be helpful, some patients may experience side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. It’s important to check in regularly with a healthcare provider to adjust dosages as necessary and manage any side effects effectively.

NMDA Receptor Antagonists

NMDA receptor antagonists are used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. They help manage glutamate, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in learning and memory. 

Too much glutamate in the brain can harm brain cells and cause thinking problems. These medications block NMDA receptors, which helps prevent the overactivity caused by excess glutamate. 

Memantine (Namenda): A key example of an NMDA receptor antagonist

Memantine is the most widely prescribed NMDA receptor antagonist. It’s often given to individuals with moderate to severe Alzheimer’s, either on its own or alongside other treatments.

Many patients find that Memantine helps improve memory and makes daily activities easier. It can also reduce feelings of agitation or restlessness.

Potential side effects 

While generally well-tolerated, it’s important to note that these medications can cause side effects like dizziness and confusion. Regular check-ins with a healthcare provider are essential to control dosage and manage side effects.

Medications for treating dementia symptoms 

Now, let’s take a look at the medications that help manage the symptoms of dementia. These treatments aim to make everyday life a bit easier by addressing issues like mood swings, anxiety, and agitation.

Antidepressants

These medications are an excellent option for those experiencing feelings of sadness or depression. Options like Sertraline (Zoloft®) and Citalopram (Celexa®) can be taken to stabilize mood, lift spirits, and improve emotional well-being. 

Anti-anxiety medications

Anxiety is another common symptom of dementia, and these medications help to relieve it. Options like Lorazepam (Ativan) and Buspirone (Buspar) can calm worries and restlessness so your loved one can find more calm and comfort in their daily life.

Antipsychotics

Maintaining a peaceful environment is vital for Alzheimer’s patients and people living with dementia. For severe agitation or aggressive behaviors, antipsychotic medications can be beneficial. Medications like Risperidone (Risperdal) and Olanzapine (Zyprexa) stabilize mood, helping you and your loved one feel safe.

Sleep aids

Sufficient sleep is essential for overall well-being, and medications like these can help manage insomnia and improve sleep quality. Trazodone and Melatonin are popular choices that can help establish a restful nighttime routine, making it easier to wake up feeling refreshed.

Understanding the effectiveness of dementia medications

Whether it’s Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, Parkinson’s disease dementia, or another type, each type of dementia has its own mechanisms and symptoms. So, it’s important to remember that dementia medications work differently for different types of dementia. For example, cholinesterase inhibitors may work for someone with Alzheimer’s but not for someone with frontotemporal dementia. 

That’s why a personalized approach is key to finding a treatment that works for your loved one. Discuss the options with your healthcare provider to customize a treatment plan and get the best possible results. 

The more you know about each type of dementia and the different medications available, the better you’ll be able to make informed decisions about your loved one’s overall care.

Closing thoughts 

When you’re living with someone with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, finding the right treatments and other medications can make a huge difference in your loved one’s quality of life. 

Each medication targets specific symptoms and types of dementia, and may cause a range of side effects. Finding the right fit is essential to ease as much discomfort as possible. Do your research and ask your healthcare provider to customize a treatment plan to meet your loved one’s needs while keeping side effects in check.

The benefits of a Memory Care community

From managing medications to meeting daily needs, when you’re caring for someone suffering with dementia, it can be difficult to make sure their needs are met—especially on your own. A care community can be an excellent way to make sure your loved one has the care and support they need. 

If you live in Round Rock, Texas and think transitioning your loved one to a care community may be a good choice, you can trust Sundara Senior Living to treat your family members like they’re our own.

We focus on creating a warm, home-like environment and providing personalized dementia care, ensuring both patients and their families feel comfortable and supported.

Fill out our online form today to get started. A friendly team member is ready to assist you!