While receiving a diagnosis is a critical first step on the FTD journey, identifying and implementing effective care strategies for the person diagnosed in the wake of a diagnosis can be overwhelming. One of the first questions you are likely to have after you or your loved one receives an FTD diagnosis is: “Are there any treatments available to help?” While there are currently no FDA-approved medications or disease-modifying treatments for FTD, there are a variety of options for using medications to manage FTD symptoms.

Using medications requires careful monitoring and open communication with the prescribing physician. As the person living with FTD or their care partner, you should take time before your visit to identify the most pressing issues. This will help the physician in determining which medications may be most beneficial. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), for example, can be effective in treating a wide range of behavioral symptoms in FTD, including apathy, depression, agitation, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.

Trial and error is often part of the process of identifying the proper medications and dosages for your particular situation. Monitoring, recording and relaying your experience to the prescribing physician is key. You should keep a log of daily medication use, its efficacy in treating symptoms, and any side effects experienced – positive or negative – to share with your physician.

In most instances, medication alone will not eliminate problematic symptoms. However, when medication is used in conjunction with other interventions, the combination has the potential to improve quality of life. Occupational, physical, and/or speech therapy, along with behavioral and environmental changes, have proven to be the most effective interventions available today.

For more information on the types of medications physicians may prescribe to manage FTD symptoms, you can consult the Treating FTD page on AFTD’s website. In addition, our Fall 2019 issue of Partners in FTD Care examines how medications, non-pharmacological interventions, and ongoing engagement with knowledgeable professionals can help you or your loved one to manage symptoms as you navigate your FTD journey.