MEDICATIONS:
Memantine (Namenda). This is a type of medicine that can slow the late stages of Alzheimer’s disease. It may also benefit those with mild to moderate vascular dementia. More studies are under way.

Rivastigmine (Exelon) can now be given through a skin patch. Skin patches release medicine into the blood at a steady level and may reduce side effects. And it’s easier for caregivers to make sure a person is taking the medicine properly when the person uses a skin patch.

The doctor may prescribe medicines for high blood pressure and high cholesterol, since these conditions are risk factors for vascular dementia. These drugs cannot reverse existing dementia, but they may prevent future strokes and heart disease that can lead to further brain damage.

Antidepressants to treat depression, which is common in dementia. They must be used with caution, because they can cause delirium in people with dementia. Antidepressants that have the fewest side effect