Cholinesterase Inhibitors: A New Class of Psychotropic Compounds

Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors have psychotropic effects and may play an important role in controlling neuropsychiatric and behavioral disturbances in patients with Alzheimer's disease. These agents also may contribute to the management of other disorders with cholinergic system abnormalities and neuropsychiatric symptoms. The beneficial response is most likely mediated through limbic cholinergic structures.