What are memory medications?
Memory medications is a term used to describe several drugs that have shown to slow down some of the effects of Alzheimer's. They may help you or a loved one stay independent longer by slowing down memory loss.
They are most effective in the early to moderate stages of Alzheimer's but may also have benefits for behavioural symptoms in later stages as well.
How memory medications can help.
Alzheimer's affects the brain in many ways, including the loss of an important brain chemical called acetylcholine.
Acetylcholine is needed to carry messages between cells in the brain so we can think, remember and speak. Some medications increase the amount of acetylcholine which helps the brain to send and receive messages.
These medications include:
• Aricept (donepezil)
• Exelon (rivastigmine)
• Reminyl (galantamine)
Side affects of memory medications.
Side effects vary by person and may range from non-existent to severe.
Potential side effects include:
|
nausea (6-9%)
|
dizziness (0-3%) |
| vomiting (5-8%) |
diarrhea (9-15%) |
| insomnia (6-14%) |
headaches (8%) |
|
It's important to talk with your doctor about any drugs - prescription, over-the-counter, or supplements you may be taking.
Some medications can interfere with memory medications.
Always talk to your doctor before deciding to stop taking any prescriped medications.
|
Is there help to pay for medications?
- Provincial drug coverage is available for those who qualify.
- Your doctor has specific testing criteria to determine whether or not you may be eligible.
- Speak to your doctor to see if this is applicable to you or your loved one.
For more information on medications used in the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease, visit the Alzheimer Society of Canada online. They have detailed information on the three drugs listed above, as well as Ebixa (also known as memantine hydrochloride). Ebixa has been conditionally approved by Health Canada.
Source: CDHA Seniors Mental Health
Prepared by: Rachel Childs & Nicola Goudy
Dalhousie University School of Nursing
What are memory medications?
Memory medications is a term used to describe several drugs that have shown to slow down some of the effects of Alzheimer's. They may help you or a loved one stay independent longer by slowing down memory loss.
They are most effective in the early to moderate stages of Alzheimer's but may also have benefits for behavioural symptoms in later stages as well.
How memory medications can help.
Alzheimer's affects the brain in many ways, including the loss of an important brain chemical called acetylcholine.
Acetylcholine is needed to carry messages between cells in the brain so we can think, remember and speak. Some medications increase the amount of acetylcholine which helps the brain to send and receive messages.
These medications include:
• Aricept (donepezil)
• Exelon (rivastigmine)
• Reminyl (galantamine)
Side affects of memory medications.
Side effects vary by person and may range from non-existent to severe.
Potential side effects include:
|
nausea (6-9%)
|
dizziness (0-3%) |
| vomiting (5-8%) |
diarrhea (9-15%) |
| insomnia (6-14%) |
headaches (8%) |
|
It's important to talk with your doctor about any drugs - prescription, over-the-counter, or supplements you may be taking.
Some medications can interfere with memory medications.
Always talk to your doctor before deciding to stop taking any prescriped medications.
|
Is there help to pay for medications?
- Provincial drug coverage is available for those who qualify.
- Your doctor has specific testing criteria to determine whether or not you may be eligible.
- Speak to your doctor to see if this is applicable to you or your loved one.
For more information on medications used in the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease, visit the Alzheimer Society of Canada online. They have detailed information on the three drugs listed above, as well as Ebixa (also known as memantine hydrochloride). Ebixa has been conditionally approved by Health Canada.
Source: CDHA Seniors Mental Health
Prepared by: Rachel Childs & Nicola Goudy
Dalhousie University School of Nursing