Dementia Flashcards
(17 cards)
What is dementia?
A progressive clinical syndrome with a range of cognitive and behavioural symptoms
Dementia is classified as a mental disability.
What is the most common type of dementia?
Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s disease is the leading form of dementia.
What neurotransmitter is mainly low in dementia?
Acetylcholine
Low levels of acetylcholine are associated with cognitive decline in dementia.
What are the two main drug classes used in dementia treatment?
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and memantine
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are used for mild to moderate dementia, while memantine is for severe cases.
Name three acetylcholine inhibitors used in dementia treatment.
- Donepezil
- Rivastigmine
- Galantamine
These medications help manage symptoms by increasing acetylcholine levels.
What are some risk factors for dementia?
- Ageing
- Genetics
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD)
- Parkinson’s disease
- Cerebrovascular disease
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
These factors can increase the likelihood of developing dementia.
What non-drug treatment is recommended for mild to moderate dementia?
Cognitive stimulation program
This program helps improve cognitive function and quality of life.
What is the initial dose of Donepezil for mild to moderate dementia?
5 mg once a day for a month
The dose may be increased to 10 mg daily if needed.
When should Donepezil be administered?
At bedtime
This timing helps reduce side effects and improve adherence.
What is the usual maintenance dose of memantine for moderate to severe dementia?
20 mg daily
Memantine is titrated from an initial 5 mg dose.
What should be minimized due to their effect on cognitive impairment in dementia?
Anticholinergic drugs
These drugs can exacerbate cognitive decline.
Which types of drugs should be used with caution in elderly patients with dementia?
- Antidepressants
- Antihistamines
- Antipsychotics
- Urinary antispasmodics
These medications carry risks of increased cognitive impairment.
What does the MHRA warn about the use of anticholinergic drugs in elderly patients?
Stroke and death risk when antipsychotics are used
This highlights the importance of careful medication management in dementia patients.
What therapeutic approaches are recommended for dementia patients with depression?
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Relaxation techniques
- Therapy
Medications should be reserved for extreme cases.
What advice should be given for sleep disturbances in dementia patients?
Sleep hygiene advice
Good sleep practices can help manage sleep issues.
How often should the effectiveness of anticholinergic drugs be reviewed?
Regularly in 6 weeks
This ensures that the risks are managed and benefits assessed.
Fill in the blank: In severe dementia, _______ is used.
memantine
Memantine is specifically indicated for severe cases of dementia.
