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Drug Therapy in Cognitive Disorders and Its Effects on Oral Health
Syed Ershad Ahmed1,2, Rizwana Begum3, Aparna S Kumar4
1Prosthodontics, Sri Ramakrishna Dental College and Hospital, Coimbatore, IND.
Cureus
|August 30, 2022
Summary
Oral health providers play a crucial role in managing cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia. Understanding AD drug therapies and their oral health implications is essential for comprehensive patient care.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Neurology
- Oral Medicine
Background:
- Dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are prevalent cognitive disorders affecting the elderly, characterized by memory loss and functional decline.
- The increasing prevalence of AD and dementia in India necessitates broader healthcare professional involvement.
- Oral health care providers have a significant role in the rehabilitation and treatment of patients with these cognitive conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of oral health care providers in managing patients with dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
- To provide an overview of pharmacologic agents used in the management of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
- To outline the implications of Alzheimer's disease drug therapies on oral health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on dementia and Alzheimer's disease management.
- Analysis of current pharmacologic treatments for Alzheimer's disease.
- Examination of the impact of these treatments on oral health.
Main Results:
- Oral health professionals are integral to the multidisciplinary care of individuals with cognitive impairments.
- Knowledge of Alzheimer's disease medications is crucial for effective patient management.
- Specific drug therapies for Alzheimer's disease can present unique oral health challenges and considerations.
Conclusions:
- Oral health care providers must be educated on dementia and Alzheimer's disease pharmacotherapy.
- Understanding drug implications is vital for optimizing oral health outcomes in patients with cognitive disorders.
- Integrated care approaches benefit patients with Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
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