Cholinesterase Inhibitors for Alzheimer's Disease

Cholinesterase inhibitors may produce small improvements in memory and general ability to function. For example, the person may be able to remember friends' names better and be able to dress himself or herself with less difficulty.

The various cholinesterase inhibitors have similar effects on memory and cognitive function. So the decision about what medicine to use may be based on side effects, dosing schedules and ease of use, individual response to a particular medicine, or other factors.

Cholinesterase inhibitors do not work for everyone who has Alzheimer's disease, but they are helpful for some people. They may be a reasonable option for those who understand the risks and costs and feel the possible benefits are worth it. As the disease progresses, the medicine eventually may stop working.

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