Psychiatric Drugs Overused In Nursing Homes - Authorities Concerned

Editor's Choice
Main Category: Alzheimer's / Dementia
Also Included In: Psychology / Psychiatry
Article Date: 03 Jan 2012 - 8:00 PST


According to government inspectors from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), strong psychiatric medications are often prescribed to individuals with dementia in nursing homes, but for off-label reasons. In addition, families of dementia patients in nursing homes should be vigilant about the care they receive. Drugs, such as Zyprexa and Seroquel, designed to treat individuals with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, are being used to sedate residents with dementia.

. Chicago personal injury attorney Robert Briskman, Esq explained:

"These medicines can cause serious injuries and deaths when improperly used. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration has sent out multiple warnings advising nursing homes to stop this practice."

Medicare should penalize nursing homes that prescribe these medications inappropriately, according to a recommendation from the HHS to the Senate Committee on Aging. The penalties under consideration vary from barring nursing homes to fines. 14% of all individuals in nursing homes were prescribed antipsychotics in just 6 months.

Briskman said:

"HHS' testimony showed that nursing homes wanted dementia patients to sleep through the night and not be as aggressive. Nursing home professionals should follow the standard of care to treat patients with proper medicines and nutrition that will help stabilize their condition, and not hurt them needlessly."

Written by Grace Rattue


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