[Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors for dementia--an update]

Abstract

The efficacy of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors for the treatment of dementia diseases has been established for both key cognitive symptoms and dementia-associated symptoms such as aggressiveness and the ability to perform activities of daily life. Presently three AChE inhibitors are approved for the treatment of mild to moderately severe Alzheimer dementia: donepezil, rivastigmine and galantamine. Rivastigmine is also approved for the treatment of Parkinson's dementia. The three substances differ in their efficacy and their pharmacological properties. AChE inhibitors should be used for long-term treatment. The clinical course should be monitored every six months.