Neuropharmacology of Dementia

Understand the mechanism of action (at a synaptic level) of both licensed anti-dementia drugs.
In reference to the above, understand the acetylcholine and glutamate synapses.
Describe the benefits and side effects of the drugs.
Understand the importance of behavioural symptoms in dementia.
Explain some of the principles underpinning the treatment of these symptoms.
Identify the risks and benefits of medications used to treat these symptoms, especially the antipsychotics.

What are the 2 classes of cognitive enhancers of dementia?
What is the cholinergic hypothesis of dementia onset?
Outline the side effects of anticholinesterases?
What are the other types of dementia?
Outline the benefit of anticholinesterases in Dementia with Lewy Bodies and Parkinson’s
What is the glutamate hypothesis of dementia onset?
Outline the action of the NMDA receptor
What is the link between glutamate and Alzheimer’s disease?
How does memantine work?
How important is cognition in dementia?
What are the neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer’s/Dementia?
What are the organic/biological correlates of behavioural/psychological symptoms in Dementia?