Drugs for memory loss?

[Hairyhat]

Are there drugs/medication that can help slow the progression of dementia?
My friend's DM is just starting with memory problems and I'm hoping there is some treatment?
Thanks all

[NoBinturongsHereMate]

It depends on the stage and type of dementia. And the sex of the patient matters, too. Unfortunately one of the ones for Alzheimers that got a lot of positive press coverage a year or so ago was reasonably effective in men (helped 40% of those taking it), but no use at all in women.

So, maybe - but I wouldn't get your hopes up too high.

[Hairyhat]

I didn't know that. Thank you for replying.

[NoBinturongsHereMate]

One thing that definitely isn't a drug for memory loss is the shingles vaccine. However, they recently discovered that (for women, but not for men) the shingles vaccine seems to substantially reduce the risk of developing Alzheimers.

They don't know why, and I've not seen any data on whether it has any effect on progression In someone who already has dementia. But if I were in your friend's DM's position and hadn't had the shingles vaccine I'd get it now on the grounds that there's a possibility it might help (and at the very least it will prevent shingles).

[Hairyhat]

That's so interesting. Thanks I'll pass the information on

[NoBinturongsHereMate]

On a more solid note the first step is an appointment with the memory clinic, if not already done. They can not only determine what's going on and talk you through whether there are any relevant treatments, they can also refer for other support so that can be thought about and put in place early.

With any type of dementia, getting coping strategies up and running early is key - while people are still able to learn new routines and how to use new equipment.

[AstronomyDomine]

My DM was diagnosed last year and had to have a brain scan to determine the best medicine for her. She's been on Donepezil since July and the effect of it is transformative - brilliant - but only expected to last around 12 months 😔

[Hairyhat]

@AstronomyDomine thanks for sharing. All information is helpful

[Beamur]

My Mum was also prescribed Donepezel and it has really good effects for a while.

[ragdoll12345]

My Dad had medication as he had vascular dementia and Alzheimer's, but it gave him hallucinations. He took them when going to bed as directed but could see flashing lights everywhere. We were told this is quite common, so he stopped taking them. My Mum had Alzheimer's and took them for years. No way of knowing whether they slowed things down, she did get worse.