Advances in the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease: Current Therapies and Future Prospects

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.15951825100411

• Palavras-chave: Alzheimer's disease, Pharmacological therapies, Non-pharmacological therapies, Biomarkers, Early diagnosis, Psychological support, Cognition, Quality of life.

• Keywords: Alzheimer's disease, Pharmacological therapies, Non-pharmacological therapies, Biomarkers, Early diagnosis, Psychological support, Cognition, Quality of life.

• Abstract:

  Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia worldwide, characterized by the gradual decline of cognitive functions, with a significant impact on patients' quality of life. Although genetic factors, such as APOE-ε4, and modifiable factors, such as hypertension and obesity, influence the disease, age remains the main risk factor. The pathophysiology of AD involves the accumulation of abnormal proteins and an inflammatory process that results in neuronal damage and loss of cognitive functions. Current treatment is based mainly on pharmacological therapies, such as cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, and non-pharmacological therapies, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, these treatments have limitations, and the search for therapeutic alternatives continues. The use of biomarkers, such as tau and Aβ levels, has shown potential for early diagnosis and monitoring disease progression, but disease-modifying therapy is still lacking. Psychological support for patients and caregivers also stands out as essential for improving quality of life and disease management.