Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia where brain cells are gradually destroyed leading to a progressive decline in mental function.  The disease advances at varying rates gradually destroying a person’s memory and their ability to learn, reason and make judgments.  The first sign may be simple forgetfulness, but over time people with Alzheimer’s have problems thinking clearly.  They begin to have difficulty with daily activities such as verbal communication, placing a telephone call, bathing, driving and shopping.  They may watch television for hours or sleep more than normal.  In the early stages of the disease, symptoms may include irritability, anxiety or depression.  In the later stages of the disease, symptoms may include sleep disturbances, physical or verbal aggression, restlessness, pacing, and seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there.  As the disease progresses and cells die in other areas of the brain the person will eventually need complete care.  People with the disease live an average of eight to 10 years after being diagnosed, but the disease can last as long as 20 years.

• Alzheimer’s disease is one of our nation’s greatest medical, social, and economic challenges
• Aging is the greatest risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s disease; the risk doubles every five years after the age of 65
• Family history and genetics (heredity) also increase the risk of developing the disease
• It is estimated 4.5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s, and by 2050 the numbers could range from 11.3 to 16 million
• There is no cure for the disease; early diagnosis and effective use of available therapies are key factors in managing symptoms

Will I live longer if I receive treatment for Alzheimer's disease?
No, there is no evidence that treatment for Alzheimer's disease will lengthen your life.

Will the treatment of Alzheimer's improve my quality of life?
Yes, early diagnosis, treating the symptoms of the disease, and getting effective care and support can improve quality of life.

Does the treatment of Alzheimer's make my symptoms better?
Prescription medications developed to treat early and middle stages of the disease may help to delay or prevent symptoms from becoming worse for a limited time.

How safe is this for me?

How safe are prescription medications for the treatment of Alzheimer’s for me?

Side effects from these medications may vary from person to person. Some reported examples are listed below.

Minor reported complications in medications used to treat cognitive behavior in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach
• Weight loss
• Muscle weakness

Major reported complications in medications used to treat cognitive behavior in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease:

• Possible liver damage is associated with Cognex^® tacrine)

Note: Cognex^® (tacrine) is still available but is no longer actively marketed by the manufacturer and is rarely prescribed because of the associated side effects. 

Minor reported complications in medications used to treat cognitive behavior in moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Constipation
• Confusion

Alternative treatments, such as herbal or all natural products, are lacking regarding scientific evidence to confirm their safety and effectiveness.

The Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institute on Aging estimate direct and indirect care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease to be $100 billion annually.  The cost of care in a nursing home averages $42,000 per year, but can cost more than $70,000 per year in some areas.

The cost may or may not be covered by insurance.

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