Medication to Calm Dementia PatientsMedications can help calm agitation, anxiety and depression in Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. They can also slow the progression of the disease, enhance cognitive function and improve memory recall.Non-drug OptionsIt is often possible to reduce agitation and difficult behaviors without medications. These behaviors can be caused by boredom, frustration, fear, physical discomfort, or overstimulating environment. Caregivers can use a variety of approaches to manage these behavior problems, including multidisciplinary care, touch and massage, music therapy, and other behavioral management techniques.Antidepressants and BenzodiazepinesThere are a few different antidepressants that can be used to decrease agitation, especially when used at low starting doses (with small increases as needed). These drugs are well tolerated by older adults, but usually take weeks or longer to see an effect.MemantineMemantine is an antidepressant drug that is used for people with moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Memantine has been shown to be effective in reducing agitation and may increase social engagement in some people.Benzodiazepines and AntipsychoticsBenzodiazepines like Xanax are often prescribed to reduce agitation, anxiety, and insomnia in people with Alzheimer’s disease. However, recent research suggests that they may be contributing to an earlier death in those with dementia. Similarly, some studies suggest that antipsychotics may cause a faster rate of cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia patients.  dementia and wandering These risks are important to consider before deciding to start an antipsychotic.