What are some of the main medical treatments for Alzheimer’s disease?

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    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    No medical treatments have been proven to stop or slow Alzheimer's disease, but some medications, like acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, can improve symptoms and cognitive function to a limited extent. Additionally, aducanumab was approved by the FDA for its effects on amyloid plaques, though its effect on clinical outcomes is still uncertain.

    No medical treatments have been clearly shown to stop or slow the underlying disease process in Alzheimer’s disease. However, some medication can improve symptoms. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors can improve cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s disease, although the effect is generally small.[1]

    In 2020, a medication called aducanumab was approved by the FDA for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease based on its effects on amyloid plaques, but whether aducanumab improves clinical outcomes (e.g., cognitive function) remains to be established.[2]