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Is Aricept Better Than Memantine For The Treatment Of Dementia?
Question: For early indications of dementia is Memantine 10G Tablets warranted?
Is Arecept better?
Is Arecept better?
Brief Answer:
Aricept better, may try Exelon patch to avoid stomach upset.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
On paper Memantine is approved only for moderate or severe dementia. That is because there are no studies to have shown any significant benefit in mild dementia. That doesn't mean it will stay that way though, in the future such studies may be conducted. In real world I must say many neurologists use Memantine off label also on mild cases and I think there is some efficacy judging from daily clinical practice.
Medication like Aricept (donepezil) on the other hand has been approved for mild cases as well as there are studies to have confirmed its benefit. That applies for two other drugs of the same class rivastigmine and galantamine.
One suggestion I might make in your case before using Memantine off label would be to try rivastigmine patches. You say Aricept caused stomach upset. Perhaps using Rivastigmine (Exelon) patches (the same class and indications as Aricept) instead of taking it by mouth won't produce the same side effects.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Aricept better, may try Exelon patch to avoid stomach upset.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
On paper Memantine is approved only for moderate or severe dementia. That is because there are no studies to have shown any significant benefit in mild dementia. That doesn't mean it will stay that way though, in the future such studies may be conducted. In real world I must say many neurologists use Memantine off label also on mild cases and I think there is some efficacy judging from daily clinical practice.
Medication like Aricept (donepezil) on the other hand has been approved for mild cases as well as there are studies to have confirmed its benefit. That applies for two other drugs of the same class rivastigmine and galantamine.
One suggestion I might make in your case before using Memantine off label would be to try rivastigmine patches. You say Aricept caused stomach upset. Perhaps using Rivastigmine (Exelon) patches (the same class and indications as Aricept) instead of taking it by mouth won't produce the same side effects.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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