Alzheimer's Medication Guide: What You Need to Know

If you or a loved one has an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, the first question is usually “what can medication do?” The short answer: drugs can help slow symptoms, improve daily function, and give you more time with clearer moments. They aren’t a cure, but they can make a real difference when paired with lifestyle changes and support.

Before you pick a pill, think about what you want to achieve. Are you looking to boost memory a bit, manage mood swings, or reduce aggressive behavior? Different meds target different parts of the disease, so the right choice depends on the symptoms that bother you most.

Common FDA‑Approved Drugs

Four meds dominate the market because they have the most evidence behind them. They belong to two classes: cholinesterase inhibitors and an NMDA‑receptor antagonist.

Donepezil (Aricept) – Works by increasing acetylcholine, a brain chemical that helps with memory. It’s approved for mild to severe Alzheimer’s, taken once a day. Most people feel a modest boost in daily tasks, and side effects like nausea or trouble sleeping usually fade after a few weeks.

Rivastigmine (Exelon) – Also a cholinesterase inhibitor but comes as a pill or a skin patch. The patch is great if you forget to take pills, and it often causes fewer stomach issues. It’s used for mild to moderate stages.

Galantamine (Razadyne) – Another cholinesterase blocker, taken twice daily. It may help mood and attention a bit more than the other two, though it can cause dizziness.

Memantine (Namenda) – Targets a different brain pathway (glutamate). It’s approved for moderate to severe Alzheimer’s and is often added to a cholinesterase inhibitor. People on memantine often notice steadier daily function and fewer hallucinations.

Doctors sometimes combine a cholinesterase inhibitor with memantine for a broader effect. The combo isn’t a magic bullet, but many patients report a smoother day‑to‑day experience.

Choosing the Right Treatment

Start by talking with a neurologist or geriatrician who knows Alzheimer’s well. Bring a list of current meds, any health issues, and a clear picture of daily challenges. The doctor will weigh factors like kidney function, heart health, and whether you’ve had trouble with stomach meds before.

Cost matters, too. Generic versions of donepezil and memantine are now widely available, which can cut out‑of‑pocket expenses. If insurance covers brand‑name drugs, ask about prior‑authorization steps so you don’t get stuck waiting.

Monitor side effects closely. In the first month, keep a simple diary: note any nausea, dizziness, changes in mood, or sleep problems. If something feels off, call the prescribing doctor—sometimes a dosage tweak or a switch to a patch can solve the issue.

Remember that meds work best alongside non‑drug strategies: regular exercise, a Mediterranean‑style diet, social activities, and mental games. Even a short walk can boost blood flow to the brain and help the medication do its job.

Finally, give the medication time. Most doctors recommend a trial of 3–6 months before deciding if it’s worth continuing. If you don’t notice any benefit after that window, discuss alternatives or clinical trial options.

Alzheimer’s medication isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all solution, but with the right drug, proper dosing, and supportive lifestyle habits, you can keep quality of life higher for longer. Keep the conversation open with your care team, stay observant of changes, and don’t hesitate to ask questions—your peace of mind matters just as much as the pills themselves.