How does the treatment for dementia with Lewy bodies differ from the treatment for Alzheimer's disease?

Lewy Body Dementia has a different underlying cause than Alzheimer’s. It is in the Parkinson’s family of disorders. Often as it progresses patients may be given Dopamine replacement type medications such as Sinamet to help treat movement problems.

Even though it is an off-label use, Alzheimer’s medications such as Namenda or Aricept are often prescribed and can provide some benefit with memory and behaviour symptoms. They tend to be very safe with few side effects so doctors will often try them to help with symptom management.

The main treatment difference is not so much in what medicines you use as what medications need to be avoided.

One of the primary symptoms of Lewy Body Dementia is visual hallucinations. Unfortunately the types of anti-psychotic medications that are frequently used to treat Hallucinations in other conditions (Haldol, Zyprexa etc.) can be very dangerous for these patients. These medications cause worsening of physical symptoms and in severe situations can cause death.

There are only a handful of safe behaviour medications that can be used with Lewy Body dementia and you should work with a specialist neurologist or geriatric psychiatrist to make sure prescribing is done correctly.

Due to the Movement symptoms with Lewy Body dementia family needs to be diligent in helping the patient exercise regularly. Exercise and Physical therapy help reduce falls which is a major concern with Lewy Body dementia.

Each Dementia illness is different and these differences make getting a good diagnosis very important.

Reference: Elizabeth Garcia-Leavitt