Dementia: a guide to drugs and therapies that can ease symptoms

The article outlines medicines and non-drug therapies used in the UK to manage dementia symptoms, and describes practical and legal steps often taken after diagnosis.

Every three minutes someone in the UK is diagnosed with dementia and around one million people are affected. Dementia is an umbrella term for conditions that impair brain areas and can cause memory loss, behavioural change and concentration problems. The article reviews drug treatments, non-drug therapies and legal or administrative steps that often follow a diagnosis. Key points: - Cholinesterase inhibitors are commonly used for early Alzheimer's and some Lewy body or mixed dementias and may modestly stabilise memory and function. - Memantine is prescribed for later-stage disease or when cholinesterase inhibitors are not tolerated and can have side effects such as dizziness or headaches. - Monoclonal antibody treatments were approved by the MHRA in 2024 for early Alzheimer's but are not routinely available on the NHS because of cost; they are given by intravenous infusion. - Non-drug approaches noted include cognitive stimulation therapy (recommended by NICE for mild to moderate dementia), cognitive behavioural therapy, exercise, music and art therapies, and tailored activities for later stages. - Practical adaptations at home (lighting, grab rails, labelled items, timed pill dispensers) and one-to-one therapies such as cognitive rehabilitation and speech and language therapy are reported as helpful for daily functioning. - Legal and administrative matters discussed include informing the DVLA about a diagnosis, arranging lasting powers of attorney, making or updating a will while capacity remains, and applying for benefits such as Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payment. Summary: Treatments and supportive therapies can help manage symptoms and support quality of life, though effects vary between individuals. Availability of specific services and funding can differ by area, and some newer therapies are not routinely provided by the NHS. Undetermined at this time.