Professional
Technical
IVT
acetylcholinesterase inhibitors
Pronunciation: uh-see-til-koh-lin-ES-ter-ays in-HIB-ih-tors
Medications that block the enzyme acetylcholinesterase to increase acetylcholine levels in the brain, commonly prescribed for dementia.
Full Definition
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are a class of medications that prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine by blocking the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. These drugs are primarily used in cognitive neurology to treat symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias by improving cholinergic neurotransmission. Common examples include donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine. While they do not cure dementia, they may temporarily slow cognitive decline in some patients.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as AChEIs in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient showed modest improvement in ADAS-Cog scores after six months of acetylcholinesterase inhibitor therapy." — Clinical assessment report
- "Discontinuation of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors should be considered if gastrointestinal side effects become intolerable." — Treatment guidelines
Also known as
cholinesterase inhibitors
anticholinesterases
Don't confuse with
acetylcholine receptor agonists
cholinergic antagonists