As Alzheimer’s disease treatment advances, pharmacists emerge as key players in medication management, patient education and exploring supplementary options.
Alzheimer disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, affects millions worldwide and is marked by memory loss, cognitive decline, and a decrease in functional ability. According to experts, the illness progresses along a continuum that includes stages of mild cognitive impairment, mild dementia, moderate dementia, and severe dementia. Importantly, the pathological changes associated with Alzheimer’s, including the buildup of amyloid-beta plaques and tau protein within the brain, may initiate as much as ten to twenty years prior to any visible signs of the disease.
Patients diagnosed with Alzheimer disease often receive pharmacological treatments designed to slow cognitive decline by targeting the underlying biological mechanisms, particularly the formation of amyloid-beta aggregates. These medications are accompanied by symptomatic treatments focusing on enhancing communication between nerve cells by preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine. Despite these treatments, some patients exhibit minimal improvement in their symptoms, prompting healthcare providers to explore alternative options.
Some healthcare professionals are now looking into brain supplements as a potential solution for patients or their caregivers who do not notice substantial benefits from conventional treatments. Prevagen, which is manufactured by Quincy Bioscience, stands out as a dietary supplement that contains the ingredient apoaequorin, specifically formulated to support memory. According to a survey conducted by Pharmacy Times, it is the most frequently recommended memory supplement by pharmacists.
Other supplements under consideration include ginkgo biloba, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, curcumin, B vitamins, and probiotics. While some studies on these natural products have reported slight improvements in the prevention of cognitive decline, experts indicate there remains a need for further investigation to substantiate these claims.
Beyond pharmacological and supplement interventions, pharmacists can advocate for several non-pharmacological strategies to support patients with Alzheimer’s. These may encompass lifestyle modifications designed to foster a brain-healthy environment, such as regular physical activity, healthy eating, stress management, and mental challenges. Additionally, cognitive behavioural therapy can assist individuals in adjusting to their diagnosis, while music therapy and memory-based exercises can enhance communication and socialisation skills.
Pharmacists also play a critical role in the early detection of Alzheimer-related symptoms. They frequently interface with patients and may identify signals of mild cognitive impairment or changes in behaviour and mood. In doing so, pharmacists can recommend that patients seek further evaluation, whether through diagnostic tests or consultations with specialists, including neurologists and memory care professionals.
Moreover, pharmacists are integral in ensuring patients receive the correct medications, monitoring for potential drug interactions, and providing guidance on treatment regimens and side effects. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals allows pharmacists to contribute meaningfully to the conversation about patients’ care, particularly in interpreting biomarker test results and facilitating lifestyle adjustments.
In summary, as the landscape of Alzheimer disease treatment evolves, pharmacists are increasingly recognised for their valuable contributions towards improving patient outcomes through medication management, patient education, and the promotion of supplementary treatment options.
Source: Noah Wire Services
