Behavioral and pharmacologic management of patients with Alzheimer's disease

While as yet there are no proven effective primary treatments for Alzheimer's disease, physicians play a critical role in the evaluation and long-term supportive care of these patients and their families. The physician also plays a pivotal role in helping the patient make management decisions regarding their loved one such as organizing the process of nursing home placement in the more advanced phases of the illness. In addition, physicians provide a focal point for triage community support resources, such as the Alzheimer's Association. When necessary, the judicious and conservative use of psychopharmacologic agents can serve to partially diminish the pervasive behavioral complications of this illness.