[Are anti-dementia drugs worthwhile?].

The efficacy of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitors donepezil, galantamine and rivastigmine for Alzheimer's disease is well-documented by a number of studies. In Germany, the three substances are approved for the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease; the glutamate antagonist memantine is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. The health economical benefit of these medicines is disputed and ultimately depends on the health policy evaluation. However, from the medical perspective, every newly diagnosed case of Alzheimer's disease justifies a therapeutic attempt. In a given case, changing between the three approved acetylcholinesterase inhibitors or memantine may be indicated. Whether a combination of the substances has advantages is currently being tested.