title: Long-term efficacy and toxicity of cholinesterase inhibitors in the treatment of Alzheimer disease.
abstract: Though the symptoms of Alzheimer disease go on for years, the phase 3 trials of the cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs), the current mainstay of symptomatic pharmacotherapy for this condition, were typically of only 3- to 6-months' duration. We have limited data on long-term (that is, a year or more) therapy with these agents. In this review, we explore the available information on the biological and clinical effects of long-term ChEI therapy, what happens when these agents are discontinued, and examine what others have recommended An individualized approach to deciding on whether to carry on with a ChEI should be taken. If continued, treatment goals should be clarified and patients monitored over time, for both drug-related benefits and adverse effects.
authors.forename: David B
authors.initials: DB
authors.lastname: Hogan
mesh_terms: D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002800:Cholinesterase Inhibitors / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000633:toxicity; D006801:Humans
chemical_list: D002800:Cholinesterase Inhibitors