Other treatments
Many patients with dementia are interested in complementary or alternative therapies due to their perceived benefits and image of being 'natural'. These include:
Exercise
Exercise can significantly improve the cognitive function of people with dementia. However, there is a lot of unexplained variation.
Vitamin E
A 2012 Cochrane Review found no convincing evidence that vitamin E benefits AD treatment or mild cognitive impairment. However, high dose vitamin E has been shown to slow functional decline by around six months. Cochrane reviews have found insufficient evidence to support aromatherapy, music therapy, melatonin, acupuncture, TENS, vitamin B12 supplementation, fish oils, aspirin, huperzine A, ginkgo biloba, light therapy, massage or touch interventions.
Anti-inflammatory agents
A 2010 study found that chronic NSAID use was linked to increased neurone plaque accumulation. The NICE-SCIE guideline does not recommend NSAIDs to treat dementia.
Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors
A recent study suggests that the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors in older adults with AD is associated with reduced cognitive decline.
Immunotherapy
Research is currently assessing whether the aggregation of amyloid-beta peptide can be blocked by the use of antibodies.
Practice point
Should information regarding medication and disease management be given to a patient with dementia or their carer? Discuss with your pharmacist.
Why not complete the final module in this series on dementia?