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Unfortunately, there is no cure for AD. The goals in treating AD are to:
- Slow the progression of the disease.
- Manage behavior problems, confusion, and agitation.
- Modify the home enviroment.
- Support family members and other caregivers.
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The most promising treatments include lifestyle changes, medications, and antioxidant supplements like vitamin E and ginkgo biloba.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES
The following steps can help people with AD:
- Walk regularly with a caregiver or other reliable companion. This can improve communication skills and prevent wandering.
- Use bright light therapy to reduce insomnia and wandering.
- Listen to calming music. This may reduce wandering and restlessness, boost brain chemicals, ease anxiety, enhance sleep, and improve behavior.
- Get a pet dog.
- Practice relaxation techniques.
- Receive regular massages. This is relaxing and provides social interactions.
DRUG TREATMENT
Several drugs are available to try to slow the progression of AD and possibly improve the person's mental capabilities. These include donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), galantamine (Razadyne, formerly called Reminyl), and tacrine (Cognex).
All of these drugs affect the level of acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter) in the brain and all have potential side effects, such as nausea and vomiting. Tacrine also causes an elevation in liver enzymes and must be taken four times a day. It is now seldom used.
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