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Condition guide · /alzheimers/
Alzheimer's disease treatment
Reviewed by Dr. Arjun Mehta, PharmD — Head Pharmacist. Updated May 2025.
55M
60–70%
Have Alzheimer’s
2
Main drug classes
Symptomatic
About this condition
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. Current medications do not cure it but can modestly slow cognitive decline and ease behavioural symptoms in some patients. Earlier diagnosis means earlier treatment and better planning.
Two main drug groups are used: cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) for mild-to-moderate disease, and memantine (an NMDA antagonist) for moderate-to-severe disease. They can be combined. Newer disease-modifying antibodies are emerging but availability and eligibility are limited.
Treatment options
Donepezil
Cholinesterase inhibitor. Once daily, usually at night. Most prescribed Alzheimer’s medicine globally.
Rivastigmine
Galantamine
Memantine
NMDA antagonist for moderate-severe disease. Can be combined with a cholinesterase inhibitor.
Common questions
Do these drugs cure Alzheimer's?
No. They slow decline modestly and can improve symptoms for a period — typically 6–12 months — but disease progresses despite treatment.
What are the common side effects?
Cholinesterase inhibitors cause nausea, diarrhoea and weight loss in some patients. Start low, increase slowly.
When should treatment start?
After a confirmed Alzheimer’s diagnosis by a specialist. Earlier mild cognitive impairment is not usually treated.
Dr. Arjun Mehta, PharmD · Head Pharmacist
/our-pharmacists/arjun-mehta/ — Reviewed May 2025
This guide is reviewed every 12 months or sooner when clinical guidance changes. If you have a specific medical question, call our pharmacist team — we answer the phone, not a bot.
