Final answer:
Cholinesterase inhibitors prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain, increasing its levels and promoting neuronal communication. This is particularly useful in treating Alzheimer's disease, where these inhibitors can improve symptoms and slow progression by enhancing the function of the cholinergic system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cholinesterase inhibitor mentioned works centrally in the brain to increase levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This inhibition prevents the breakdown of ACh in the synapses, leading to increased communication between neurons. As the neurotransmitter is essential for many functions in the body, particularly in the cholinergic system, enhancing its activity can be beneficial in conditions like Alzheimer's disease, where cholinergic transmission is compromised.
In Alzheimer's disease, a cholinesterase inhibitor may help improve symptoms and slow progression. For example, a patient named Rosa with mild Alzheimer's disease may experience some relief in symptoms due to increased levels of ACh resulting from the action of such a medication. Unlike anticholinergic drugs which block the action of acetylcholine, cholinesterase inhibitors support and amplify its function.
The primary role of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which is to break down acetylcholine, is thus inhibited, allowing more ACh to remain active in the synapse. This facilitates better neuronal communication and may ameliorate symptoms related to deficits in acetylcholine activity, such as those found in Alzheimer's disease.