Acetylcholine in Alzheimer’s Treatment Discuss acetylcholine as a target for disease-modifying treatment in Alzheimer’s disease. Describe first-line
Purpose:
The purpose of required threaded discussions is an interactive dialogue among instructors and students to assist the student in organizing integrating applying and critically appraising one’s knowledge regarding the nursing profession and selected area of practice. Scholarly information obtained from current sources as well as professional communication is required. The articles should have been published within the past 5 years and be peer-reviewed. In some cases you will need to pull in content from the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). 
Acetylcholine and Alzheimer’s Treatment
Acetylcholine as a Target in Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by progressive memory loss and cognitive decline, largely due to the loss of cholinergic neurons in the brain. Acetylcholine (ACh), a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory, is significantly reduced in AD. Therefore, boosting acetylcholine levels is a key target for treatment.
First-Line Therapy for Alzheimer’s Disease
The primary treatment for AD includes cholinesterase inhibitors, which slow the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain, temporarily improving cognitive function. The most commonly used first-line agents are:
- Donepezil (Aricept) – Approved for all stages of AD, taken once daily.
- Rivastigmine (Exelon) – Available as a patch or capsule, used in mild to moderate AD.
- Galantamine (Razadyne) – Used for mild to moderate AD, also has effects on nicotinic receptors, enhancing acetylcholine release.
These medications do not cure AD but may slow symptom progression and improve quality of life.
When Are Antipsychotics Appropriate?
Patients with AD often experience agitation, aggression, and hallucinations, particularly in the later stages. While antipsychotics should generally be avoided, they may be used in cases where behavioral symptoms pose a severe risk to the patient or others.
Considerations for Antipsychotic Use:
- Only used when non-drug approaches fail.
- Risperidone and Olanzapine are sometimes prescribed but carry risks, including stroke and death in elderly dementia patients.
- Avoid prolonged use due to serious side effects like sedation and movement disorders.
In summary, cholinesterase inhibitors remain the first-line treatment, while antipsychotics are reserved for extreme behavioral symptoms in AD patients.APA