Alzheimer's Disease Treatment

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder, primarily manifested as memory decline, cognitive impairment, and behavioral changes. Currently, there is no cure for the disease. However, through medication, lifestyle adjustments, and stem cell therapy, disease progression can be slowed, and patient quality of life can be improved.

Emerging Treatment Methods

Neural reconstruction based on stem cell therapy

Neural reconstruction with stem cell therapy is the most promising Alzheimer’s treatment after traditional approaches. Stem cells can promote nerve regeneration, secrete growth factors, support neuronal survival, and improve vascular function in the brain, offering significant potential in AD treatment.

Advantages of neural reconstruction with stem cell therapy:

① Neural regeneration: Differentiates into functional neurons or supportive cells to replenish degenerating cells.

② Anti-inflammatory and immune regulation: Inhibits abnormal activation of microglia and reduces chronic neuroinflammation.

③ Clearing pathological proteins: Reduces Aβ and tau protein deposits by secreting enzymes or activating phagocytes.

④ Neurotrophic support: Secretes growth factors such as BDNF and NGF, promoting synaptic remodeling and neuronal survival.

Traditional drugs mainly delay symptoms, while stem cells directly repair nerve damage and slow disease progression.

Conventional Treatment Methods

1. Drug therapy

Current drug treatments for AD are mainly divided into two categories: cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA receptor antagonists.

① Cholinesterase inhibitors: Such as Donepezil, Galantamine, and Rivastigmine, increase acetylcholine levels in the brain to improve cognitive function, suitable for mild to moderate patients.

② NMDA receptor antagonists: Such as Memantine, used for moderate to severe patients. These drugs regulate glutamate activity, reduce neuronal damage, and improve memory and learning ability.

Additionally, researchers are exploring new drugs such as monoclonal antibody therapies (e.g., Aducanumab), aimed at clearing β-amyloid plaques in the brain to slow disease progression.

2. Non-drug interventions

Non-drug treatments play an important role in improving quality of life for Alzheimer’s patients alongside medications.

① Cognitive training: Activities such as memory games, reading, and painting stimulate the brain and enhance cognitive abilities.

② Psychological support: Encouraging patients to maintain social interactions with family and friends to reduce anxiety and depression.

③ Behavioral therapy: For patients with mood swings, hallucinations, or anxiety, interventions such as music therapy and aromatherapy can help alleviate symptoms.

3. Lifestyle adjustments

Healthy lifestyles help lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and slow disease progression.

① Healthy diet: A Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables, fruits, fish, nuts, and olive oil supports brain health.

② Regular exercise: Moderate activities such as walking, yoga, or tai chi improve blood circulation, enhance brain oxygenation, and slow cognitive decline.

③ Adequate sleep: Insufficient sleep may accelerate AD progression, so maintaining sufficient sleep is crucial.

④ Managing chronic conditions: Hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol are linked to higher AD risk and should be monitored and managed.

Conclusion

Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that although there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, combining stem cell therapy with medications and healthy lifestyle practices can effectively slow disease progression and improve patients’ quality of life.