Which medication is NOT commonly associated with improving cognition in Alzheimer's disease?

The choice of ibuprofen as the answer is grounded in the understanding of how medications commonly used in Alzheimer's disease function. Donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine are all cholinesterase inhibitors. They work by enhancing the levels of acetylcholine in the brain, which is often deficient in patients with Alzheimer's disease. These medications are specifically designed to improve cognitive function, memory, and overall behavior in patients suffering from this condition.

In contrast, ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) primarily used for pain relief and to reduce inflammation. While some studies have investigated the role of inflammation in Alzheimer's disease and suggested that inflammation may contribute to neurodegeneration, ibuprofen does not target the underlying cognitive deficits associated with the disease. It is not a treatment designed to improve cognition, and thus it is not commonly associated with cognitive enhancement in Alzheimer’s patients.

This distinction highlights the importance of recognizing which medications are specifically intended for cognitive improvement in Alzheimer's disease versus those that may have general effects or different therapeutic uses.