Pharmacological treatment of behavioural problems in dementia

Abstract

Dementia is commonly associated with distressing behavioural problems that warrant intervention. A general medical assessment of the patient is needed before assessing whether specific treatment is required. Both non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions can be considered. The best available evidence is for the use of low-dose antipsychotic medication in patients with agitated or aggressive behaviour with or without associated psychotic symptoms. There is less evidence to support the use of antidepressants, anticonvulsants and cholinesterase inhibitors in patients whose dementia is complicated by behavioural problems. When psychotropic medication is prescribed to people with dementia, it should be regularly reviewed with a view to stopping it or assessing the patient after a trial off the medication.