Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability
Jim Shulman, Executive Director

There is no cure for Alzheimer's, but there are drugs that may improve memory and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

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

These drugs have been approved by the FDA. You need to talk to your physician about these drugs. Some are more effective in the earlier stages of Alzheimer's disease, and some have side effects that you need to be aware of.

Alzheimer's disease can present behavorial problems like depression, agitation, anxiety and/or sleep disruption. A doctor may prescribe drugs or vitamins that address these problems. Consult with your physician.

Because many older adults take several medications at one time, it is possible that these drugs can interact with one another and be a danger. If more than one doctor is prescribing medications, it is important to keep each doctor aware of the drugs that are being taken. You can keep them informed by taking all your drugs in a paper sack or a list of all your drugs to each doctor. Having one pharmacist that fills all of your prescriptions is a way to prevent taking drugs that interact and cause problems. Over-the-counter or non-prescription drugs also can cause problems. Talk with your pharmacist before using them. Source

Sites that have information or assistance for various prescription drugs.

• Drugs in Clinical Trials
  Click on "New Medicines in Development for Neurological Disorders"
• Pharmaceutical Association
  (Directory of prescription drugs and patient assistance program)
• RX Hope
  (Prescription drug assistance programs - low or no cost)
• The Medicine Program
  (Free medications for those who qualify)

Alternative Treatment.

No doubt, you will hear rumors and ads promoting the effectiveness of certain herbs or dietary supplements in the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease. You should know that most are not regulated by the FDA, their purity is unknown, and that their effects are not being monitored. Before beginning any alternative treatment program, consult a doctor. Failure to do so could be detrimental to your health.

Ginko Biloba

Ginko Biloba is a traditional Chinese medicine that is being used to improve cognitive ability. More research is needed on this plant extract, and as yet, there has not been enough research to verify the claims of its users.

Few side effects have been reported, but it is known to affect the clotting of blood, which could lead to blood thinning and all the problems associated with that. One should consult with trained medical personnel before taking this or any other alternative treatment.

Blood clotting is one of the few side effects that has been reported. One should consult with a trained medical professional before taking.

Huperzine A

Huperzine A is another traditional Chinese medicine. It is a moss extract that is known to have some of the same characteristics as approved medicines. Taking this drug with certain Alzheimer's medications can have serious adverse effects. Research is ongoing, but in the meantime, consult with trained medical personnel before taking this or any other alternative treatment.