FDA Warns Psychiatric Drugs May Hasten Death

The FDA warned doctors this week that prescribing antipsychotic drugs to dementia patients may increase their likelihood of death. Antipsychotic medications, such as Risperdal and Zyprexa, are approved to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder but are also commonly prescribed to elderly patients with dementia. They are typically prescribed to dementia patients to treat dementia-related psychosis which may include agitation and combativeness.

The FDA has ordered that these medications must now carry a black box warning, which is the most serious warning a drug can have.

The FDA is in charge of regulating the approval and marketing of drugs but physicians have a lot of freedom in prescribing medication "off-label", meaning for purposes that are not FDA approved. There is no FDA approved treatment for dementia related psychosis and the FDA is continuing to urge physicians to explore other treatment options.

So, what does this mean for you? If you have a loved one suffering from dementia, think twice before allowing their doctor to prescribe antipsychotic medication for them. Have you tried other things to minimize their behavior? Dr. Eric Hollander, a professor at the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine says, "A lot of the things can be done to help change one's environment so elderly patients can be more oriented and engaged."

Changing one's environment? Sounds pretty easy but it isn't always so. While there are many specialized dementia units throughout the country that provide excellent care for dementia patients, most nursing homes still have a long way to go. If your loved one is in a nursing home and their physician has recommended an antipsychotic drug, try calling a meeting together with the doctor, nursing home director, head nurse, social worker, and activity director. Perhaps you can all brainstorm ways to change your loved ones environment or daily routine to reduce their anxiety.

If your loved one is at home, you can still find many resources to help you cope with behavioral problems before consenting to antipsychotic medications. Carrie Hill, PhD., About.com's guide to Alzheimer's Disease has many resources to help you manage behavioral symptoms.

Palliative Care for Dementia