Parkinson’s-Related Dementia

Dementia refers to difficulty with thinking and memory that impairs day-to-day function and the ability to live independently. Dementia often develops in people with advanced Parkinson’s. The medications used for Parkinson’s-Related Dementia are cholinesterase inhibitors. This means they increase the amount of acetylcholine, which is involved in thinking and memory. These medications often have a modest benefit. They can also sometimes have benefit in reducing freezing of gait. Note that anticholinergic medications have the opposite effect (they lower acetylcholine), so anticholinergic medications should usually be avoided by a person with Parkinson’s-Related Dementia. These medications are all approved for Alzheimer’s disease, which is a different type of dementia. Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and tremor.

Generic Name
Trade Name
Notes
Link
Patient Assistance
Brochure
Rivastigmine

Exelon pill or patch

Only medication specifically approved for Parkinson’s-Related Dementia.
Available as a patch, which often causes less nausea, and can also be an advantage for people with swallowing problems.
Product Website Novartis Patient Assistance

Amneal approved to produce generic patch

Donepezil Aricept pill or dissolvable pill Dissolvable pill can be an advantage for people with swallowing problems. Product Website
Galantamine Razadyne, Razadyne ER Johnson & Johnson Patient Assistance

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