Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that gradually destroys brain cells, leading to memory loss and cognitive decline. As the most common form of dementia, it affects over 400,000 Australians and impacts millions of families across the country. The disease damages connections between brain cells, causing them to die and resulting in shrinkage of brain tissue.
Early symptoms include difficulty remembering recent conversations, misplacing items, and challenges with problem-solving. As the disease progresses through mild, moderate, and severe stages, individuals may experience confusion about time and place, mood changes, and eventually require assistance with basic daily activities.
The impact on Australian families is significant, with many becoming full-time carers whilst navigating the healthcare system and managing emotional stress.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved several medications to help manage Alzheimer's symptoms and slow cognitive decline. These treatments work by regulating brain chemicals that are important for memory and learning functions.
Donepezil (Aricept) is commonly prescribed for mild to moderate Alzheimer's, helping improve memory and thinking abilities. Rivastigmine (Exelon) is available in both patch and capsule forms, offering flexible dosing options for patients who may have swallowing difficulties. The patch form provides steady medication delivery throughout the day.
Galantamine (Reminyl) comes in extended-release formulations, allowing once-daily dosing which improves medication compliance. This medication may also help with behavioural symptoms associated with dementia.
Memantine (Ebixa) is specifically indicated for moderate to severe Alzheimer's stages and works differently from other treatments by regulating glutamate activity in the brain. Healthcare professionals often consider combination therapies, carefully monitoring dosages to optimise benefits whilst minimising side effects for each individual patient.
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition that primarily affects movement control due to the gradual loss of dopamine-producing brain cells. This degenerative disorder impacts the brain's ability to coordinate smooth, controlled movements, leading to characteristic motor symptoms that worsen over time.
Motor symptoms include tremors, muscle rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. Non-motor symptoms encompass sleep disturbances, depression, cognitive changes, constipation, and loss of smell. These symptoms significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life.
Parkinson's progresses through five stages, from mild unilateral symptoms to requiring full-time care. Across Australia, support networks including Parkinson's Australia provide resources, advocacy, and community connections. The NDIS may offer support services, whilst Medicare subsidises many treatments through the PBS, ensuring Australians have access to essential medications and therapies for managing this challenging condition.
Australian pharmacies stock various PBS-subsidised medications specifically designed to manage Parkinson's symptoms. These treatments work by replacing dopamine, mimicking its action, or preventing its breakdown in the brain.
Successful Parkinson's treatment requires precise timing and individualised dosing schedules. Your pharmacist can provide dosette boxes and timing advice to optimise medication effectiveness whilst minimising side effects like dyskinesia or wearing-off episodes.
Alzheimer's medications, particularly cholinesterase inhibitors like donepezil, can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and loss of appetite. Some patients may experience vivid dreams, muscle cramps, or dizziness. These effects are often temporary and may diminish as your body adjusts to the medication.
Parkinson's treatments, especially levodopa-based medications, can lead to dyskinesia (involuntary movements), nausea, and sudden onset of sleep. Dopamine agonists may cause compulsive behaviours such as gambling or shopping. It's crucial to report any unusual behavioural changes to your healthcare provider immediately.
Always inform healthcare professionals about all medications, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements. Certain antipsychotics can worsen Parkinson's symptoms, whilst some medications may reduce the effectiveness of Alzheimer's treatments. Regular monitoring and dosage adjustments ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes whilst minimising adverse effects.
Dementia Australia provides comprehensive support through their National Dementia Helpline (1800 100 500), offering counselling, information, and early intervention programs. Parkinson's Australia delivers education sessions, support groups, and advocacy services across all states and territories, ensuring families receive culturally appropriate assistance.
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) significantly reduces medication costs for eligible patients. Additional support includes:
These services ensure comprehensive care coordination, reducing the burden on primary carers whilst maintaining quality of life for patients and their families throughout Australia.
