According to statistics compiled by the Mayo Clinic, up to 40 percent of those who suffer from Alzheimer's disease also experience symptoms of depression. It can sometimes be difficult for physicians to distinguish between the two conditions. Exelon is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms that can accompany Alzheimer's, one of which is depression.
Alzheimer's Disease and Depression
Individuals who suffer from mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease may be prone to social withdrawal, memory problems, impaired concentration, excessive sleep and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. People with depression can experience many of the same symptoms. And while chemical imbalances in the brain are, more often than not, the cause of these symptoms, Alzheimer's is a condition brought about by the aging process in the body and the brain.
Causes of Alzheimer's Disease
The most debilitating aspects of Alzheimer's disease include memory loss, impaired reasoning, dementia and depression. These symptoms are a result of chemical imbalances within the brain. The affected chemicals are known as neurotransmitters. And while neurotransmitter activity works to provide the needed levels of each chemical for normal functioning, chemical levels can still be thrown off balance when available brain cells begin to die off. This is what happens in Alzheimer's disease.
Exelon Treatment
Exelon--also known as rivastigmine--treats Alzheimer's symptoms by helping to increase acetylcholine levels within the brain. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter produced by certain brain cells. In the case of Alzheimer's, specific brain cells begin to deteriorate at an abnormal rate, which is what causes the symptoms of depression, memory loss and dementia so many experience. Exelon isn't a cure, but it does protect the levels of acetylcholine that are already present in the brain.
How Exelon Works
Exelon is classified as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor: It prevents the chemical responsible for breaking down acetylcholine (called acetylcholinesterase, a neurotransmitter) from being produced. The drug doesn't prevent further deterioration of cells affected by Alzheimer's, but it does help to reduce the symptoms experienced as result of low acetylcholine levels.
Dosages and Side Effects
Exelon is one of a number of medications used to treat Alzheimer's disease. It comes in capsules, in tablets and as an oral solution. Initial doses range from 1.5 to 2.0 milligrams daily for 2 weeks. The dosage amount is then increased to 3.0 to 6.0 milligrams, twice a day, depending on how a person responds to the drug. Possible side effects include nausea and vomiting. When side effects occur, the primary physician may advise skipping a few doses for a while, then resuming regular dosage levels.
Tags: brain cells, acetylcholine levels, Alzheimer disease, Alzheimer disease, brain cells begin, cells begin