Question

Cholinesterase inhibitors, such as rivastigmine (Exelon), are used in Alzheimer's disease medication. They work by preventing the hydrolysis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) into choline and acetic acid. This reaction is necessary for a cholinergic neuron to return to its resting state after activation. The increased communication between healthy neurons is believed to be crucial for memory, thought, and judgment. How do cholinesterase inhibitors improve cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease?

a) By increasing the breakdown of acetylcholine
b) By preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine
c) By mimicking the action of acetylcholine
d) By increasing the production of acetic acid

Answer 1

Cholinesterase inhibitors like rivastigmine improve cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease by preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine, thus enhancing communication between neurons.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cholinesterase inhibitors, such as rivastigmine (Exelon), are medications used to treat Alzheimer's disease by enhancing cognitive function. They do so by preventing the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh), which is critical for memory, thought, and judgment. Normally, ACh is hydrolyzed by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) into choline and acetic acid, which allows a cholinergic neuron to return to its resting state after activation. Cholinesterase inhibitors block this enzyme, resulting in increased levels of ACh in the synaptic cleft, and thereby improving communication between neurons. This increased communication is believed to help ameliorate symptoms and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.