Side effects should never be ignored. Patients should be assertive if they are having uncomfortable symptoms.
Consumer Reports Best Buy Drugs emphasizes that doctors and patients don't always communicate well about prescriptions. Such communication is especially important with Alzheimer's, for a number of reasons, among them:
The most common Alzheimer's medications all have side effects that disturb some people and not others.
The most common Alzheimer's medications are frequently unnecessary, as many people do just as well without them.
There is a growing body of data regarding the dangers of unforeseen interactions between many medications. Therefore, less is often better.
Today's medicines are not cheap.
Consumer Reports recommends the following tips for improving communication:
Consumers should keep a list of the drugs they are taking and be sure to mention any adverse reactions.
Consumers should ask about drug options and shouldn't be shy about asking their doctors why they are prescribing a given drug.
Consumers should be wary of free samples, as they are often the newer brand-name drugs which might not be the best choice.
It's important to raise cost concerns. Studies show that doctors are often unaware of drug costs and don't ask their patients whether cost is an issue.
It's wise to double-check dosing and ask whether a lower dose is an option.
Side effects should never be ignored. Patients should be assertive if they are having uncomfortable symptoms.
It may be a good idea to print out this list (by clicking on the print icon at the top of this article). Use it to prepare notes before each visit to the doctor.
The ACP/AAFP Committee just issued new guidelines on the five available medications for Alzheimer's. Which one's best? It's mostly a matter of side-effects, ease of use and cost.
Alzheimer's medications have positive yet limited benefits. This week, Australia's NPS recommended a planned, regular approach to reviewing medications. In addition, more non-pharmacological therapies are recommended to enhance independence and manage symptoms.
People with Alzheimer's and other dementias often take medications called cholinesterase inhibitors. New research demonstrates they are also a safe alternative to antipsychotics for the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.
