Cognitive and neuropsychiatric impairments in Alzheimer's disease: current treatment strategies

Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2014 Sep;16(9):470. doi: 10.1007/s11920-014-0470-z.

Abstract

This update on Alzheimer's disease (AD) discusses treatment strategies for cognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms (such as agitation, psychosis, anxiety, and depression) common in this illness, emphasizing in particular nonpharmacologic strategies such as cognitive interventions, physical exercise, and psychotherapy. We provide an overview of cognitive enhancers and their combination strategies and medications commonly used for treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD. Finally, we give recommendations for providing support to caregivers and suggest how to identify caregiver/patient pairs most in need of intensive dementia care services.

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / psychology*
  • Alzheimer Disease / therapy
  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology
  • Cognition Disorders / therapy*
  • Dopamine Agents / therapeutic use
  • Exercise Therapy / methods
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders / etiology
  • Mental Disorders / therapy*
  • Neuroprotective Agents / therapeutic use
  • Psychotherapy / methods*

Substances

  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors
  • Dopamine Agents
  • Neuroprotective Agents