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Suggest Medication For Alzheimer S Disease Other Than Imodium 2
Hey my father in law has been diagnosed with alzheimer , and the meds cause loose stools and at this point very messing, so after discussing this with dr. I started Imodium 2 every other day for four days , today he is consipated , so I told caregiver to stop Imodium and have him drink water, is there anything else I should do?
Wed, 31 May 2023
Hi,
It is not uncommon for Alzheimer's disease patients to experience gastrointestinal side effects from their medication, such as diarrhea or constipation. Imodium (loperamide) is an over-the-counter medication used to treat diarrhea, but it may cause constipation if used too frequently or in large doses. Follow the dosage instructions provided by the doctor.
Other medications may be used to treat Alzheimer's disease that do not typically cause gastrointestinal side effects. These medications are called cholinesterase inhibitors and include drugs such as donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), and galantamine (Razadyne). These medications work by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine in the brain, which is important for memory and thinking.
It is important to discuss with your father-in-law's doctor the possibility of switching to one of these medications, as they may be a better option for him if he is experiencing significant gastrointestinal side effects from his current medication. It is also important to address any underlying causes of his constipation, such as inadequate hydration, lack of physical activity, or certain dietary habits. In addition to drinking water, increasing his intake of high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help to relieve his constipation.
If you require a personalized response, kindly use the Ask A Doctor service and post a follow-up. Take care. Hope I have answered your question.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
It is not uncommon for Alzheimer's disease patients to experience gastrointestinal side effects from their medication, such as diarrhea or constipation. Imodium (loperamide) is an over-the-counter medication used to treat diarrhea, but it may cause constipation if used too frequently or in large doses. Follow the dosage instructions provided by the doctor.
Other medications may be used to treat Alzheimer's disease that do not typically cause gastrointestinal side effects. These medications are called cholinesterase inhibitors and include drugs such as donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), and galantamine (Razadyne). These medications work by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine in the brain, which is important for memory and thinking.
It is important to discuss with your father-in-law's doctor the possibility of switching to one of these medications, as they may be a better option for him if he is experiencing significant gastrointestinal side effects from his current medication. It is also important to address any underlying causes of his constipation, such as inadequate hydration, lack of physical activity, or certain dietary habits. In addition to drinking water, increasing his intake of high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help to relieve his constipation.
If you require a personalized response, kindly use the Ask A Doctor service and post a follow-up. Take care. Hope I have answered your question.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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