Anti-Alzheimer's Disease

- AD is characterized by degeneration of cholinergic neurons leading to deficiencies in ACh

- Medications to treat AD are acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors

- Inhibits the breakdown of ACH

- Increases ACh levels in the neuron receptors

- AChE inhibitors increase cognitive function for mild to moderate AD patients

- Are classified into reversible and nonreversible AChE inhibitors

Rivastigmine

- Used for mild to moderate AD

- Increases the amount of ACh at cholinergic synapses

- It is absorbed faster through the GI ***without*** food

- Contraindicated in patients with liver and renal dysfunction