DESK REVIEWS | 04.06.05.04. If yes, what is commonly used?

DESK REVIEW | 04.06.05.04. If yes, what is commonly used?

Natural medicines are used by the population, although there is no evidence of their effect. Some of them are:  ginkgo biloba, selegiline, vitamin E, and omega 3 (Brazilian Alzheimer’s Association, 2019). Faith healers are not widely used in Brazil for treating and managing dementia, in some cases, sporadic prayer groups may exist for that aim.

References:

Brazilian Alzheimer’s Association. (2019). ABRAZ. ABRAZ. https://abraz.org.br/2020/

Yes, the chapter regarding progressive cognitive symptoms management (Chapter 4.3.1) mentions the pharmacological treatments for symptomaitc relief in dementia especially for Alzheimer’s disease. They include Cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI) (e.g., Donepezil, Rivastigmine, Galantamine) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist (e.g., Memantine) (Department of Health, 2017b, pp. 29-30). These medicines are included in the Hospital Authority Drug Formulary in Hong Kong (The Government of the Hong Kong SAR, 2015, February 25).

References:

Department of Health. (2017b). Hong Kong Reference Framework for Preventive Care for Older Adults in Primary Care Settings: Module on Cognitive Impairment. Retrieved from https://www.fhb.gov.hk/pho/rfs/english/pdf_viewer.html?file=download215&title=string258&titletext=string189&htmltext=string189&resources=07_Module_on_Cognitive_Impairment

The Government of the Hong Kong SAR. (2015, February 25). LCQ17: Dementia [Press release]. Retrieved from https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201502/25/P201502250512.htm

As previously mentioned, traditional medicine is widely used. No studies are yet available/published on its particular use for dementia and its related symptoms.