Alzheimer’s Disease: Causes, Treatments, and Medication Options

When someone has Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder that gradually destroys memory and thinking skills. It’s not just forgetfulness—it’s a brain condition that changes how people live, speak, and even recognize loved ones. Also known as senile dementia, it’s the most common cause of dementia in older adults, affecting over 6 million people in the U.S. alone. There’s no cure yet, but treatments can help slow the decline and make daily life easier.

One of the most widely used drugs for Alzheimer’s is Aricept, a brand name for donepezil, a cholinesterase inhibitor that helps maintain levels of acetylcholine, a brain chemical important for memory. Also known as donepezil, it’s often the first medication doctors prescribe. It doesn’t stop the disease, but many patients see clearer thinking and better focus for months or even years. Other drugs like rivastigmine and another cholinesterase inhibitor, often used in patch form for easier dosing and memantine, a drug that regulates glutamate, a brain chemical involved in learning and memory, are used in later stages or alongside Aricept. These aren’t magic pills—they don’t reverse damage—but they can give people more time to stay independent.

What’s missing from most conversations is that Alzheimer’s isn’t just about pills. Lifestyle, diet, and even sleep play roles in how fast symptoms grow. People who stay active, eat well, and manage blood pressure often hold onto their memory longer. And while new drugs like aducanumab aim to remove brain plaques, they’re expensive, risky, and not for everyone. The real value lies in knowing your options—what works, what doesn’t, and when to switch. Below, you’ll find real comparisons between Aricept and other treatments, what side effects to watch for, how costs stack up, and which patients benefit most from each choice. No fluff. Just what matters when you’re trying to protect someone’s mind.