Medications For Dementia Can Help Significantly

Medically reviewed by April Justice, LICSW and Dr. Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM
Updated October 9, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team

Receiving a dementia diagnosis or being close to someone living with dementia can be a challenging, life-altering experience, particularly because it is generally progressive. However, medications and non-drug strategies may help some individuals manage dementia symptoms. Getting the proper treatments and working together with your doctor or other health care professional may enable you to manage physical and cognitive symptoms as effectively as possible. Therapy may also be a helpful option when coping with the mental health impacts of this condition, whether as someone diagnosed or a caregiver. 

Learning to live with dementia can be challenging

What is dementia? 

Dementia is a term used to describe a group of medical conditions that can impact memory and other cognitive abilities to an extent that’s severe enough to interfere with daily life. Individuals living with mild dementia or experiencing the early stages of the disease may struggle with memory and thinking but are often able to continue living independently. Cases of severe dementia, particularly among older adults, may require intensive care to support significant mental decline and limited physical capabilities. No matter what type of dementia a person is living with, it is typical for dementia-related behaviors (forgetfulness, mood changes, confusion, difficulty concentrating) to worsen over time.

Alzheimer's disease

The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which can account for around 60% to 80% of all diagnosed cases. Other types of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s disease dementia, mild cognitive impairment, Huntington’s disease, and other conditions. Some people may also experience mixed dementia, having multiple types of dementia at once. For example, people with Alzheimer’s disease and comorbid Parkinson’s disease dementia experience mixed dementia. 

How dementia presents

Dementia is caused by underlying changes within the brain that damage neurons (brain cells) and impede their ability to communicate with each other. This affects the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Dementia most commonly presents in older patients, and there are modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for dementia.

Medications to manage symptoms

The BetterHelp platform is not intended for any information regarding which drugs, medication, or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. You should not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.

FDA-approved medications to treat memory loss and other forms of cognitive impairment in patients with dementia typically include cholinesterase inhibitors, depression medications, anxiety medications, sleeping aids, and others. The right combination of medications may depend on a person’s diagnosis, symptoms, and health needs, and not all individuals choose to take medication, whether for personal reasons or because they cannot do so. 

Some dementia medications can manage glutamate production in the brain. Glutamate is a chemical messenger involved in several key brain functions, such as learning and memory. Taking these medications may improve some individuals’ cognitive abilities in the short term. Even if these medications aren’t a long-term solution, they may support millions of people around the world. Side effects of glutamate-impacting medications can include nausea, vomiting, headache, weight gain, and changes in vision. 

Other medications for dementia may target impairment of memory and thinking in individuals with early Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment. Certain medications target amyloid proteins that cluster together to damage brain cells. Clinical trials suggest that some medications can slow the progression of cognitive decline in individuals with dementia. One study found that a dementia medication produced a decrease in amyloid markers, as well as reduced impairment in cognitive function, in people living with early Alzheimer’s disease. Newer studies are investigating the impact of insulin resistance and other metabolic changes on the development of dementia. Medications that treat insulin resistance may be helpful treatment options for dementia in the future.

In some cases, people with dementia develop mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. This could stem from physical changes to the brain, the emotional weight that could accompany the diagnosis, or both. Doctors may prescribe anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications to help patients manage symptoms. They may also utilize medications to alleviate insomnia symptoms in individuals with mild to moderate dementia. In rare instances, health professionals may prescribe a low dose of antipsychotic drugs to manage symptoms of agitation or aggression. Talk to your doctor about whether medications might be helpful to you. 

Treating different types of dementia 

Vascular dementia is often treated differently than other types of dementia. Vascular dementia typically occurs after a patient has experienced a stroke or areas of plaque buildup in the arteries of the brain. Other causes of vascular dementia include chronically high blood pressure, untreated thyroid problems, high cholesterol, high blood sugar, and vitamin deficiencies. 

Treatment for vascular dementia may involve prescribing medications to treat high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, or vitamin deficiencies. Your doctor may also focus on eliminating or improving the conditions that may have contributed to it in the first place. However, each case is unique. 

Therapy as an option alongside medication

While medications are often used to help those living with dementia limit the severity of their symptoms, they may not completely support a person through treatment and long-term care. In addition to medication, certain therapeutic modalities may be used to treat dementia or provide support to those living with these conditions. These therapies may not be capable of changing what is happening to a patient in a medical sense, but they may provide important resources, help individuals build skills, and guide people to take steps to prolong cognitive functioning for as long as possible.

Music therapy, art therapy, and similar treatment options may help some dementia patients stimulate their minds while also pursuing therapeutic goals like expressing emotions and solving problems. Traditional “talk therapy” may also be used to give patients a space to discuss their experiences and learn how to navigate challenges. Additionally, support groups may help individuals with dementia connect with people who are experiencing similar challenges. 

Cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) may be effective when seeking to combat symptoms head-on. Research suggests that CST may improve the quality of life for those diagnosed with dementia. However, cognitive function does not have to be tied to how a person experiences life. Other factors, like lower levels of depression and more independence, can also help. All forms of therapy options may help a person achieve these goals, too. 

Online therapy as part of your treatment plan

One reachable way to get treatment options that work for your needs and goals may be through online therapy. You generally don't have to leave the comfort of your home to join sessions, which can be especially useful for those whose mobility or ability to travel independently is limited. Plus, being able to connect with providers who specialize in various areas may make it easier to find someone who fits your needs and preferences.

Online therapy can provide effective care to those living with dementia and their loved ones. For instance, a 2023 study investigating the efficacy of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy found that it could treat depression symptoms in people living with chronic conditions like dementia.

Takeaway

Dementia is a progressive condition, but it can often be managed through medications, therapy, and support from others. Work closely with your doctor to determine the best treatment regimen for your unique case. Doing what you can to defend your cognitive abilities and take care of your mind may help you lessen the severity of symptoms and live a longer, healthier life. One way to seek professional support may be through an online therapy platform.
Navigate the challenges of dementia
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