Drug

Class and Indication

Mechanism of Action

Common Adverse Effects

Donepezil (FDA-approved in 1996)

Cholinesterase inhibitor prescribed to treat symptoms of mild-to-moderate and moderate-to-severe AD

Prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

Galantamine (FDA-approved in 2001)

Cholinesterase inhibitor prescribed to treat symptoms of mild-to-moderate AD

Prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine and stimulates nicotinic receptors to release more acetylcholine in the brain

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss

Rivastigmine (FDA-approved in 2000)

Cholinesterase inhibitor prescribed to treat symptoms of mild-to-moderate AD

Prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine and butyrylcholine in the brain

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, muscle weakness

Memantine (FDA-approved in 2003)

N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist prescribed to treat symptoms of moderate-t-severe AD

Blocks the toxic effects associated with excess glutamate and regulates glutamate activation

Dizziness, headache, constipation, confusion