Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, primarily impacting older adults. It is a progressive neurological disorder that causes brain cells to degenerate and die, leading to memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with thinking and daily tasks.
The disease is linked to abnormal buildups of proteins in the brain, called amyloid plaques, which disrupt communication between neurons and eventually shrink brain tissue.
Symptoms often begin subtly, with mild memory problems, and worsen over time.
Whilst there is currently no cure, with early diagnosis and support we can help you or your loved one manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and in some cases slow down disease progression.
Diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease
Whether it is for an initial appointment or a second opinion, we offer a comprehensive diagnostic pathway for patients with suspected Alzheimer’s disease. Options include state-of-the-art MRI scans, cognitive testing, a lumbar puncture, and/or an Amyloid PET scan, which will all be reviewed by a consultant with a specialism in Alzheimer’s disease.
We will only offer the diagnostic options needed for us to accurately determine whether you or a loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, and if so, how far the disease has progressed.
A rapid diagnosis for Alzheimer’s disease can make a real difference in treatment and management of the condition, so the earlier we can make an assessment the better.
Treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease
Although Alzheimer’s disease cannot be cured, there are some treatment options available which enable people to stay well for longer.
Disease-modifying treatment
For patients with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, we can offer a new disease modifying drug to patients who fit the very strict eligibility criteria. Disease-modifying drugs target and remove amyloid plaques, which are abnormal protein buildups in the brain that are linked to cognitive decline.
There are currently two options of this ground breaking drug available – Lecanemab and Donanemab. At UCLH Private Healthcare we are offering Donanemab, as patients require the infusions less frequently.
Donanemab is only available to patients who fit the very strict eligibility criteria. Clinical trials have shown that Donanemab can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s symptoms in patients with mild cognitive impairment, potentially preserving memory and thinking abilities for longer and giving patients and families more time to plan and adapt.
While it’s not a cure, Donanemab represents a significant step forward in disease-modifying therapies, offering improved quality of life and delayed symptom worsening for patients that have been identified as suitable recipients.
Our blog about the eligibility criteria for Donanemab will explain if this treatment is a potential option for you.
Symptomatic treatment
Whilst Donanemab tackles the cause of Alzheimer’s disease, there are a number of medicines available called cholinesterase inhibitors, which can slow down the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. They work by increasing levels of acetylcholine, a chemical messenger in the brain that helps nerve cells communicate. Cholinesterase inhibitors can enhance memory, sharpen awareness, and support daily functioning.
Cholinesterase inhibitors include:
- Donepezil
- Rivastigmine
- Galantamine
Although they cannot cure Alzheimer’s disease, these medicines can benefit people in the early or middle stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
There is also a drug available called Memantine, which is known as a glutamate receptor antagonist. This drug can block these receptors when they are getting too active, which can lead to modest improvements in patients with more advanced disease. It can also be used in conjunction with a cholinesterase inhibitor drug to improve symptoms. It is not a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, and it is not suitable for everyone, but your consultant can advise if this drug is a suitable option for you or your loved one.
Other options
Alternative treatment or management options may be more suitable for you or your loved one beyond the ones listed here. Your consultant will be able to advise you on the most suitable avenues during your consultations.
Why choose The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery?
The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery (NHNN) is one of the best places in the world for investigations into Alzheimer’s disease.
Our specialist consultants work closely with the Dementia Research Centre (DRC), based within the Department of Neurodegenerative Disease at UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology (ION). Together with leading research teams, they contribute to a national centre of excellence for dementia diagnosis, cognitive disorder treatment, and neurological care, impacting patients worldwide.
Our consultants are at the forefront of clinical trials and scientific research and are actively involved in developing and testing the latest therapies and innovative treatment options for cognitive impairment. For example, Professor Cath Mummery has been at the forefront of the development of anti-amyloid drugs, which were shown in clinical trials to slow down early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
Our expertise extends beyond our world-leading consultants. All clinical staff at the NHNN are specially trained in the treatment and ongoing care of patients with neurological conditions and cognitive disorders.
Whether managing complex neurological symptoms or providing long-term cognitive support, our team is committed to excellence in every aspect of neurology and brain health.