Medicines for Alzheimer's disease

What it is

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, a group of symptoms associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. It mainly affects older people, and the risk increases with age, though it is not a normal part of ageing. In Alzheimer's disease, changes in the brain (including the build-up of abnormal proteins and loss of connections between nerve cells) lead to a gradual, progressive decline in memory, thinking, and the ability to carry out everyday activities. The symptoms usually develop slowly over years, and often begin with memory problems — particularly difficulty remembering recent events, conversations, or names — and can include difficulty finding words, problems with planning, organising, or decision-making, becoming confused or disorientated (for example about time or place), changes in mood or behaviour, and, as it progresses, increasing difficulty with everyday tasks and needing more support. The pattern and pace vary from person to person. While there is currently no cure, and the condition is progressive, a lot can be done to help: treatments (including medicines for some people) can help with symptoms for a time, and — importantly — support, adaptations, and planning can help people with Alzheimer's, and those around them, to live as well as possible. Because memory problems can have other, sometimes treatable, causes, and because getting a diagnosis opens the door to support, treatment, and planning, it is important that anyone worried about their memory or thinking (or that of someone close to them) sees a GP for assessment. The reassuring message is that, although Alzheimer's is serious and progressive, diagnosis leads to help, and much can be done to support a good quality of life.

How it is treated

Alzheimer's disease is assessed and managed with input from GPs and specialist memory services, and although there is no cure, care focuses on confirming the diagnosis, treating symptoms, providing support, and planning ahead — all of which help people live as well as possible. Assessment usually involves talking through the symptoms and history, memory and thinking tests, a physical check and blood tests (to look for other, sometimes treatable, causes of memory problems), and sometimes brain scans; referral to a memory clinic or specialist helps confirm the diagnosis and type of dementia. Once diagnosed, management may include: medicines that can help with the symptoms of Alzheimer's for a period in some people (and, increasingly, newer treatments are being developed and assessed); treatments and support for associated symptoms (such as mood changes); and, crucially, a wide range of non-medicine support — including practical help and adaptations, activities that support wellbeing and cognition, support for carers, and access to services and community resources. Planning ahead is an important part of care — including arranging support, putting practical and legal arrangements in place (such as lasting power of attorney and advance planning) while the person is able to be involved in decisions, and connecting with dementia support organisations. Keeping physically active, socially engaged, and managing general health and other conditions all support wellbeing. Support for family and carers is a vital part of care. The key messages are that memory or thinking concerns should be assessed (as some causes are treatable, and diagnosis opens the door to help), and that, although Alzheimer's is progressive, treatments, support, adaptations, and planning can help people live well for as long as possible. Reducing risk across life (through a healthy lifestyle, staying active and socially engaged, and managing conditions such as high blood pressure) may also help lower the risk of dementia.