Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's Disease

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Treatment

Currently, there are several medications approved to manage Alzheimer's disease. Many patients improve with medication. However, the period of improvement and stability varies with each patient. It appears that in all patients, AD progresses in the long term, despite treatment.

In addition to drugs, an aerobic and weight-bearing exercise regimen may increase energy levels, reduce apathy and improve the overall sense of well-being. Since lack of motivation can be a problem, a personal trainer may be helpful to ensure participation in an exercise program.

One treatment that holds promise for the future is a vaccine that targets the beta-amyloid protein. Research on the vaccine in mice has been encouraging. Studies involving humans are in the early stages.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated February 12, 2008