What is the first-line treatment for Alzheimer's disease?

The first-line treatment for Alzheimer's disease is rivastigmine, which is a cholinesterase inhibitor. These medications enhance cognitive function by increasing the levels of acetylcholine in the brain, a neurotransmitter that is often deficient in individuals with Alzheimer's. Rivastigmine not only helps improve memory and cognition but may also provide some benefit in terms of functional abilities and quality of life for patients in the early to middle stages of the disease.

The other options listed do not serve as first-line treatments for Alzheimer's. Memantine is actually used for more advanced stages of Alzheimer's and is considered a second-line therapy when cognitive symptoms become more pronounced. Aspirin is primarily an anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet agent and does not have a direct role in treating Alzheimer's disease. Fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is often used for depression and anxiety but does not address the core cognitive deficits associated with Alzheimer's. Thus, rivastigmine is recommended based on its specific mechanism of action and established efficacy in treating Alzheimer's disease.