If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, the medicine list can feel overwhelming. The good news is that most drugs work best when you know a few simple rules. Below you’ll find clear, everyday advice to help you get the most out of your treatment without the guesswork.
Alzheimer’s meds fall into two groups: cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA antagonists. The first group includes donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), and galantamine (Razadyne). They boost the brain chemical acetylcholine, which can improve memory and thinking for a while. The second group is mainly memantine (Namenda), which works on a different brain pathway and is often added later when symptoms get tougher.
Most doctors start with a low dose and increase it slowly. That approach lowers the chance of stomach upset, dizziness, or headaches. If you’re on a patch (like rivastigmine), make sure the skin is clean and dry before you apply it. Rotate the patch site every few days to avoid irritation.
Set a routine. Take your pill at the same time every day—morning is common for donepezil, while evening works for rivastigmine patches. Using a phone alarm or a pill organizer can keep you on track.
Watch for side effects. Nausea, loss of appetite, or trouble sleeping are common early on. If they bother you, talk to your doctor; sometimes a tiny dose change fixes the problem. Never stop a drug suddenly—going cold turkey can make symptoms flare up.
Check other medicines. Many seniors take blood thinners, cholesterol pills, or antidepressants. Some of these can interact with Alzheimer’s drugs, especially if they affect the liver. Keep a written list and share it with every clinician you see.
Stay hydrated and eat well. Dehydration can worsen dizziness, and a balanced diet helps your body process the meds. Small, frequent meals are easier on the stomach than big ones.
Keep a symptom log. Write down how you feel each day—energy level, mood, any new aches. Over weeks, you’ll see patterns that tell you whether the drug is helping or needs tweaking.
Ask for help. If you’re caring for someone else, enlist a family member or a caregiver to watch the medication schedule. Simple reminders from a trusted person can prevent missed doses.
Remember, Alzheimer’s meds don’t cure the disease, but they can slow decline and keep daily life smoother. Pairing them with brain‑stimulating activities—like puzzles, short walks, or music—often boosts the benefit.
Finally, keep the conversation open with your doctor. Ask how the medication fits into the overall plan, what to expect in the next few months, and when it might be time to reconsider the dose. With the right routine, side‑effect management, and support, you can make Alzheimer’s medication work for you rather than the other way around.
Actionable ways to reduce nausea from donepezil (Aricept): dosing, timing, food strategies, safe anti-nausea meds, when to switch drugs, and red flags to call the doctor.