Scientists continue to look for ways to diagnose Alzheimer’s earlier, before symptoms appear, which could help people start treatment sooner. They are looking for new treatments for Alzheimer’s in clinical trials. These studies test new drugs to see if they can slow the disease from getting worse or improve memory problems or other symptoms. They’re also looking for other ways beyond drugs to treat the disease, such as an Alzheimer’s vaccine.
Aricept
Aricept is the only treatment approved by the FDA for all stages of Alzheimer’s disease: mild, moderate, and severe. You can take it as a tablet that you swallow or that dissolves in your mouth.
Exelon
Exelon is for people who have mild to moderate Alzheimer’s. You can wear a skin patch that has the drug, or take it in capsules and in liquid form.
Memantine
It works by changing the amount of a brain chemical called glutamate, which plays a role in learning and memory. Brain cells in people with Alzheimer’s disease give off too much glutamate. The drug may work even better when you take it with Aricept, Exelon, or Razadyne.
Namzaric
This drug is a mix of Namenda and Aricept. It's best for people with moderate to severe Alzheimer's who already take the two drugs separately.
