How Memory Medications Like Donepezil & Memantine Work

Oral medications for Alzheimer’s treatment options, are explained in this episode by geriatrician Leslie Kernisan, MD. Learn all about dementia medications such as donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine, and memantine (brand names Aricept, Exelon, Razadyne, and Namenda). Dr. K explains the mechanisms, efficacy, and side effects of these commonly prescribed medications, along with practical considerations for their use in older adults. The discussion also highlights mild cognitive impairment, non-drug care approaches, new anti-amyloid drugs such as lecanumab (brand name Leqembi), and the future of Alzheimer’s treatment, with realistic insights into what these therapies currently are achieving. Find related resources here: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/faqs-medications-for-alzheimers-dementia/ #alzheimersdisease, #dementia, #agingparents, #alzheimerscare, #brainhealth, #alzheimerssupport, #seniorhealth Want to learn more about getting guidance with YOUR aging parents from Dr. K and her handpicked team of professional eldercare experts? Learn more about Dr. K's Helping Older Parents programs here: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/helping-older-parents/ Chapters: 00:00 Alzheimer’s Medications: What You Need to Know 00:31 Oral Medications FDA-Approved to Treat Alzheimer’s 3:03 Understanding Aricept & Other Cholinesterase Inhibitors 4:42 Mild vs Severe Alzheimer’s 6:00 Efficacy and Side Effects of Cholinesterase Inhibitors 11:56 Exploring Memantine (Namenda) and Its Role 14:23 Do These Work for Mild Cognitive Impairment? 16:56 Medications & Other Types of Dementia 18:22 When to Stop Alzheimer’s Medications 21:30 Practical Considerations for Dementia Medication Use 25:38 Anti-amyloid Treatments for Alzheimer's 27:56 Best Treatments for Alzheimer's & Dementia WATCH NEXT: Inside Alzheimer’s Research: New Medications and Innovative Care https://youtu.be/obzdDGd7DE0 MCI, Alzheimer's and Dementia. What's the Difference? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8_kM_BQQXc 4 Most Common Types of Dementia in Aging https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uUq2i8DiKA When is it Time to Stop Driving in Aging? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpL8YzZ8y_w&t= How to Treat Mild Cognitive Impairment https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Iqc8K9a1K4 Memory Improvement: Say No to These Medications https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-3BY-naQ0M&t=1s 10 Warning Signs of Early Alzheimer's Disease https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XX5Kw2OotL0 Disclaimer: The material on the Better Health While Aging Youtube channel, including any exchanges in the comments section, is for informational and educational purposes only. Any comments Dr. Kernisan may make regarding an individual’s story or comments should not be construed as establishing a physician-patient relationship between Dr. Kernisan and a caregiver, or care recipient. None of Dr. Kernisan’s website, social media, comments, or group information should be considered a substitute for individualized medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Please see the full disclaimer for more information: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/disclaimer/