Antipsychotics Triple Risk Of Hospitalisation For People With Dementia, UK

Main Category: Alzheimer's / Dementia
Also Included In: Mental Health
Article Date: 29 May 2008 - 3:00 PDT

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Alzheimer's Society comment on new research showing that short term use of antipsychotic drugs more than triple the risk of a serious event causing hospitalisation or death in people with dementia living in the community.

This comprehensive study highlights the life-threatening effects antipsychotics have on people with dementia and reveals that people in the community are at greater risk than those in nursing homes.

Antipsychotics double risk of death and triple risk of stroke in people with dementia, yet up to 105,000 people with dementia in the UK are inappropriately prescribed them as a quick fix for treating challenging behaviour, such as aggression and agitation. Urgent action is needed to ensure these dangerous drugs are always a last resort.

Safe, effective alternatives are available; Alzheimer's Society research shows specialist dementia training for care home staff can reduce the use of antipsychotics by up to 50%. Antipsychotics should only be used in extreme circumstances, when all alternatives have failed and for no more than 12 weeks, whilst a care plan is put into place.

Prof Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society

Reference

Short-Term Use of Antipsychotics in Older Adults With Dementia Associated With Serious Adverse Events
Paula A. Rochon, M.D., M.P.H., F.R.C.P.C., (2008)
Arch Intern Med. 2008;168[10]:1090-1096

Alzheimer's Society

Alzheimer's Society is the leading care and research charity for people with all forms dementia and their carers. It provides information and education, support for carers, and quality day and home care. It funds medical and scientific research and campaigns for improved health and social services and greater public understanding of dementia.

The Alzheimer's Society provides a national help line on 0845 3000 336 and website http://www.alzheimers.org.uk. Please include this information in any publication that uses these comments.

Alzheimer's Society