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Alzheimer's disease is a medical condition defined as a steady loss of memory and mental capabilities. According to Mayo Clinic, it is the top cause for dementia.
Treatments
Treatment for Alzheimer's comes in the form of medication. These medications may help improve the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients.
Types
The two types of medications available for Alzheimer's are Memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors.
Function
Cholinesterase inhibitors work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. According to Mayo Clinic, this treatment helps less than half of patient's with Alzheimer's. Memantine works by protecting the brain cells from being damaged from a chemical messenger called glutamate.
Availability
These medications are available through prescription only. If a patient is diagnosed with Alzheimer's, a physician may suggest these medications to slow the process.
Considerations
There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease. The treatment options available may slow the process of the disease, but they do not always work on every patient
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