151 – How Memory Medications Like Donepezil and Memantine Work

In This Episode:

Dr. K explains the oral medications most commonly used to treat Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, such as donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine, and memantine (brand names Aricept, Exelon, Razadyne, and Namenda. She explains the mechanisms, efficacy, and side effects of these drugs, along with practical considerations for their use in older adults. She also discusses other important aspects of Alzheimer’s treatment.

She covers:

• Oral Medications FDA-Approved to Treat Alzheimer’s
• Understanding Aricept & Other Cholinesterase Inhibitors
• Mild vs Severe Alzheimer’s
• Efficacy and Side Effects of Cholinesterase Inhibitors
• Exploring Memantine (Namenda) and Its Role
• Do These Work for Mild Cognitive Impairment?
• Medications & Other Types of Dementia
• When to Stop Alzheimer’s Medications
• Practical Considerations for Dementia Medication Use
• Anti-amyloid Treatments for Alzheimer’s
• Best Treatments for Alzheimer’s & Dementia

Related episode:

• 026 – 4 Medications for Alzheimer’s & Other Dementias: FAQs & Tips
• 030 – Drugs for Difficult Dementia Behaviors: What to Know

Related Resources:

• • 4 Medications FDA-Approved to Treat Alzheimer’s & Other Dementias: How They Work & FAQs
  • How to Understand the Stages of Alzheimer’s & Related Dementias