According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and this number is expected to grow dramatically in the coming decades. While there is currently no cure, today's Alzheimer's treatments, including both oral medications and infusion therapy, can help manage symptoms and slow progression in early stages.
At Suite Life Health and Wellness we specialize in administering advanced infusion therapy for Alzheimer’s and other neurological conditions at our patient-centered infusion centers in Fall River and Warwick, with select services available in other Massachusetts locations. Our goal is to help patients and caregivers navigate treatment options with clarity, comfort, and clinical excellence.
Now let's explore how infusion therapy compares to oral Alzheimer's medications, and how to know which may be right for your situation.
How Alzheimer’s Medications Work
Alzheimer’s disease causes brain cell damage over time, leading to memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. Current treatments fall into two broad categories: oral medications and infusion therapies. Each works differently in the brain and targets a different stage of the disease.
Oral Alzheimer’s Medications
Oral drugs for Alzheimer’s disease are typically prescribed during mild to moderate stages. These include:
- Cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, galantamine, rivastigmine): Increase levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory.
- Memantine (an NMDA antagonist): Regulates glutamate activity to prevent further nerve damage.
- Combination therapies (donepezil + memantine): Used in moderate to severe stages.
These drugs help stabilize symptoms, but they do not modify the disease itself. Over time, their effect may lessen as brain damage progresses.
Infusion Therapy for Alzheimer’s
Infusion therapy uses IV-administered monoclonal antibodies that aim to remove beta-amyloid plaques, which are believed to contribute to the disease. Examples include:
- Lecanemab
- Donanemab
- Aducanumab (less commonly used)
These drugs are FDA-approved for early-stage Alzheimer's and administered in clinical settings. They work by helping the immune system target and clear beta-amyloid buildup in the brain, potentially slowing disease progression.
Effectiveness in Slowing Cognitive Decline
Oral Medications: Symptom Management
Oral Alzheimer’s medications may improve daily function and behavior, particularly in early and moderate stages. However, they do not halt or reverse cognitive decline. Most patients may see modest, short-term improvements, especially with combination therapy.
Infusion Therapy: Disease Modification
Infusion therapies are the first treatments shown to slow the underlying disease process. Clinical trials found that medications like lecanemab can reduce the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques and delay cognitive and functional decline in eligible patients by several months to over a year.
At Suite Life, we ensure these therapies are delivered with personalized care, symptom tracking, and regular physician updates. Our team also helps coordinate necessary diagnostics like PET scans or lumbar punctures for proper patient selection.
Side Effects and Administration: What to Expect
Oral Alzheimer's Drugs
Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness
These can usually be managed with dose adjustments. However, patients with liver or kidney issues may require close monitoring.
Infusion Medications
Because these are biologics, side effects may include:
- Infusion reactions (chills, fever, rash)
- ARIA (Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities), including brain swelling or bleeding, monitored with regular MRIs
That said, infusions are typically given every 2 to 4 weeks, with treatments administered in a controlled clinical setting under supervision—like at Suite Life. Patients receive infusions in private room with recliners, snacks, and iPads, reducing stress during visits.
Which Patients Are Best Suited for Each Option?
Not every treatment is right for every patient. Here's how the two compare:
Oral Medications May Be Better For:
- Patients in moderate or advanced stages
- Individuals who prefer at-home management
- Those unable to access an infusion center
Infusion Therapy May Be Better For:
- Early-stage Alzheimer's patients with confirmed amyloid buildup
- Families seeking a slower disease progression
- Those who are comfortable with regular imaging and clinic visits
At Suite Life, our care team can help determine your eligibility for these treatments through diagnostic testing and provider referrals.
Cost, Access, and Insurance Considerations
Oral Drugs
Many oral Alzheimer's medications are covered by Medicare Part D and private insurance. Generic versions are available, making these options more affordable for long-term use.
However, co-pays and specialist visits may add up over time.
Infusion Medications
Infusion drugs like lecanemab are covered under Medicare Part B, and some private insurance plans. However, prior authorization and imaging tests (like PET scans or MRIs) may be required.
At Suite Life, our team works directly with patients and referring providers to:
- Verify insurance
- Schedule appointments
- Coordinate imaging
- Handle paperwork
This approach reduces burden and ensures patients have timely access to the care they need.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Alzheimer’s Treatment Path
Both oral medications and infusion therapy play a role in Alzheimer’s care. Oral drugs are widely accessible and helpful for managing symptoms, while infusion therapy offers a deeper, disease-modifying option for eligible patients. Understanding your goals, diagnosis stage, and lifestyle can help guide the right choice. At Suite Life Health and Wellness, we’re here to help you or your loved one navigate Alzheimer’s treatment with confidence. From pre-treatment evaluations to insurance coordination and private infusion rooms, our team ensures a supportive and effective care experience.
Call us at (508) 567-5666 or set an appointment here to learn if infusion therapy is right for you or your loved one. We're here to help you move forward—one step at a time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Alzheimer’s medication and infusion therapy?
Alzheimer’s medications are typically oral and manage symptoms. Infusion therapy targets disease progression by removing beta-amyloid plaques.
Is infusion therapy more effective than oral drugs for Alzheimer’s?
For early-stage patients, yes. Infusion therapy has been shown to slow cognitive decline more than oral drugs.
Are Alzheimer’s disease drugs safe?
Both oral and infusion options are FDA-approved. Side effects exist, but most patients tolerate them with proper monitoring.
Who should consider infusion treatment for Alzheimer’s?
People diagnosed early, with confirmed amyloid plaque, who want to slow disease progression.
