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Cholinesterase inhibitors to reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease
To know more, see the PDF version of this Decision Box by clicking here.
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What are cholinesterase inhibitors for?Learn more
- Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) are medications taken daily to modify the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
- These medications (donepezil, rivastigmine and galantamine) inhibit the breakdown of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter associated with memory, by blocking the enzyme acetylcholinesterase.
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Who might consider taking this medication?Learn more
Individuals diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.
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Why do patient and carer preferences matter when making this decision?Learn more
There are pros and cons to taking this medication:
- PROS: 7% of individuals experience an improvement in global clinical state.
- CONS: 10% of individuals discontinue treatment because of reversible side effects, such as nausea and diarrhea
We recommend that...
Both taking and not taking the medication are acceptable options.
- The decision takes into account the patient’s and carer’s values and preferences
- The clinician shares this decision with the patient and carer
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