Is Aricept doing more harm than good with pleasant dementia?
My mother has what now is referred to as "Pleasant Dementia". She has been on Aricept for a couple of years and recently her prescription was interrupted by a delay in the insurance approval. While off the Aricept for a week, I noticed a real improvement in her memory and response - more alert, etc. After 3 weeks I am not sure if I have done the right thing as she seems more alert, I am afraid the dementia will deteriorate more quickly. Do you think I should continue the Aricept even though it made her more lethargic and "out of it". Thank you for any information.
Expert Answer
Aricept may have different effects in different people. I would not recommend starting it again if your mother is doing better without it. However, if her dementia progresses, you might want to try it again.