What is the first-line medication class used in treating Alzheimer’s Disease?

The first-line medication class used in treating Alzheimer’s Disease comprises cholinesterase inhibitors, which fall under the category of anticholinergics. These medications work by increasing the levels of acetylcholine in the brain, a neurotransmitter that is often deficient in individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease. By inhibiting the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, these drugs help enhance cholinergic functioning, which can improve cognitive symptoms related to the disease.

The role of neurotransmitters is crucial in dementia, particularly in Alzheimer's, as the degeneration of cholinergic neurons profoundly affects memory and learning. Ideally, when treating Alzheimer’s Disease, it is essential to address these cognitive deficits, and anticholinergics are specifically designed to help with that.

In contrast, the other medication classes listed do not target the underlying cholinergic deficit in Alzheimer’s. Antidepressants are primarily used to treat mood disorders and may be utilized in cases of depression that can occur alongside dementia, but they do not directly address cognitive decline. Antipsychotics may be employed to manage behavioral disturbances but carry risks and are not first-line treatments specifically for Alzheimer's-related cognitive impairment. Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants are generally used to treat attention disorders and do not