Family Discussions about Alzheimer's Treatment

Every case of Alzheimer's is unique. Each person with Alzheimer's experiences various symptoms associated with the disease over time. However, one thing all cases have in common is the progressive nature of the disease. And, as the disease progresses, there is often a need to consider new ways to help treat the symptoms.

Discuss the Benefits of Combination Therapy – Namenda+Aricept

After a person with Alzheimer's disease has been on Alzheimer's medication for a while, they may not be experiencing the same benefits they once were from the medication. For this reason, some family members may find it hard to understand why adding another Alzheimer's medication should be considered. Others may feel that adding medication will prolong suffering.

Share what you know about the benefits of combination therapy. For example:

• Namenda^® (memantine HCl)* has been used to treat more than 2 million people worldwide. ¹
• Adding Namenda to another Alzheimer's medication may help to further treat the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, thereby making caregiving more manageable. ²
• Namenda has a low potential for drug interactions ¹
• Namenda has a low rate of gastrointestinal side effects (such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting) ^1,3
• Namenda is covered by the majority of private health insurance plans and Medicare Part D plans. When choosing an insurance plan make sure to check that the drugs you take are covered. For more information about Medicare Part D, visit www.medicare.gov, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

If family meetings have worked for you before, consider bringing everyone together again to discuss the benefits of combination therapy in treating Alzheimer's. Or talk to family members or anyone else involved in the care of the Alzheimer's sufferer one-on-one or by phone. Share your opinions and work together to make the best choices for the person you are caring for.