[Advances in Anti-Dementia Therapies in Older Adults] - PubMed
4 hours ago
- #geriatric-care
- #dementia-therapies
- #alzheimers-disease
- The rising prevalence of dementia due to aging highlights the urgent need for effective therapies.
- Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) and memantine are used off-label for vascular dementia, offering modest cognitive benefits.
- Amyloid-targeting monoclonal antibodies (lecanemab, donanemab) show disease-modifying potential in MCI and early Alzheimer's by reducing amyloid plaques and slowing decline, but pose risks like ARIA.
- Non-pharmacological approaches include cognitive/physical training; 150 minutes/week of moderate exercise improves cognition in MCI and dementia.
- Digital health apps (e.g., Neuronation, Memodio) show promise as adjuncts, though evidence is limited.
- GLP-1 analogs (e.g., semaglutide) failed in recent trials for neurodegeneration.
- Early diagnosis and comprehensive geriatric assessment are crucial for balancing efficacy, safety, and patient-centered outcomes.
- Ongoing research and real-world data will clarify long-term benefits and risks of new therapies.