Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Thursday, July 07, 2011 Steve asks

Q: If you have MCI is it better to start taking Aricept immediately or use some other methods (drink of wine a day, antidepressants0 to slow down the progression and save the Aricept for later?

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Carol Bradley Bursack, Health Guide
7/ 8/11 10:09am

That's something you and your doctor have to figure out. Slowing down the progression is important, and a healthy diet, excercise and "working the brain" are all ways that have some promise. However, taking medications may be warranted. Each person is so individual, and your stage of MCI will also make a difference. I'd suggest that you get another medical opinion if you aren't sure about the one you have. There's nothing wrong with hearing from more than one doctor. This is important.

Good luck,

Carol

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AFA Social Services, Health Guide
7/13/11 10:54am

Such a question is best directed towards your physician.  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Aricept specifically for mild to severe stages of Alzheimer's disease. The decision to use this drug, or any of the other drugs, can be a difficult one, and it is important to consider all of the facts.  Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) can be thought of as a middle phase between normal aging and more serious cognitive impairment, such as dementia.  MCI could lead to a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, though not all cases do.  Aricept, one of the drugs used to treat Alzheimer's disease, is in the class of drugs known as cholinesterase Inhibitors, which help to maintain acetylcholine levels, which in turn can help slow progression of symptoms. Some research has shown that certain diets and lifestyle choices can be effective in staving off decline in memory, though know that anti-depressants are not typically used in this capacity (rather, such drugs are used to treat the depression that often accompanies dementia).  It is recommended that you speak with your physician about your treatment options.

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By Steve— Last Modified: 07/13/11, First Published: 07/07/11