If you or a loved one has Alzheimer’s, you’ve probably heard a lot of hype about new drugs, supplements, and lifestyle tricks. But which of those actually slow the disease? In this guide we cut through the noise, look at the latest evidence, and give you practical takeaways you can use right away.
Today the FDA has approved four main prescription options: three cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) and one NMDA‑receptor antagonist, memantine. All of them work by boosting neurotransmitters that help brain cells talk to each other.
Clinical trials show modest benefits – usually a 2‑3 point improvement on standard memory tests over six months. That sounds small, but for a person losing a few words a day it can mean keeping a conversation going a little longer. The drugs don’t cure Alzheimer’s, but they can delay daily‑living setbacks by several months to a year.
Side effects are common: nausea, dizziness, or vivid dreams. Starting at a low dose and increasing slowly often eases these issues. If side effects become too much, talk to a doctor about switching to another agent in the same class.
In the past year two disease‑modifying antibodies, aducanumab and lecanemab, entered the market. They target amyloid plaques, the sticky proteins that build up in Alzheimer’s brains. Early studies suggest they can reduce plaque levels by up to 30% and slow cognitive decline by roughly 25% compared to placebo.
These treatments require monthly IV infusions, brain‑MRI monitoring, and strict eligibility criteria (usually early‑stage disease). The cost is high, and insurance coverage varies, so weigh the potential slowing of decline against the practical and financial burden.
Many patients also ask about supplements like omega‑3s, vitamin E, or curcumin. The largest trials haven’t found consistent cognitive benefits, though they’re generally safe. If you’re already taking them, keep a low dose and let your doctor know.
Beyond meds, lifestyle changes matter. Regular aerobic exercise, a Mediterranean‑style diet, and mentally stimulating activities (puzzles, reading) have repeatedly shown small but real protective effects. Combining these habits with prescription therapy offers the best chance to keep function for as long as possible.
Bottom line: the most reliable way to slow Alzheimer’s is a prescription drug that matches the disease stage, paired with a healthy lifestyle. New antibody treatments look promising for early cases, but they come with more monitoring and cost. Talk with a neurologist or geriatric specialist to map out a plan that fits your situation, and don’t forget to reassess every six months – what works today might need tweaking later.
Clear, step-by-step guide to track if donepezil is helping in Alzheimer’s: what to measure, when to check, side effects to watch, and how to decide on dose changes or stopping.
