The study found that antipsychotics, commonly prescribed to manage agitation and aggression in dementia patients, carry a high risk of severe health issues, including strokes, blood clots, heart attacks, heart failure, fractures, pneumonia, and acute kidney injury. These risks are most pronounced in the early stages of treatment.
Twenty Years of Data
The study analyzed data spanning over two decades, encompassing 173,910 dementia patients aged 50 years or older. Among them, 35,339 were prescribed antipsychotics. Their medical records were compared with those of patients who did not receive these medications.The study analyzed 544,203 antipsychotic prescriptions. Of these, 25.3 percent were for typical antipsychotics, older drugs known for neurological side effects, while 74.7 percent were atypical antipsychotics, preferred for their fewer side effects. The most frequently prescribed drugs—risperidone, quetiapine, haloperidol, and olanzapine—accounted for nearly 80 percent of all prescriptions.
Data from doctors’ offices across England reveal that the risk of developing severe conditions like pneumonia and strokes peaks within the first week of starting antipsychotics. Notably, the risk of pneumonia more than doubles for users within the first three months of treatment compared to non-users.
The study further reveals that antipsychotic users have a 61 percent higher risk of stroke and a 43 percent increased likelihood of fractures than those not on these medications. Moreover, antipsychotic users face a 72 percent increased risk of acute kidney injury and a 62 percent higher risk of venous thromboembolism, a serious blood clotting disorder.
Heart-related issues are also of concern, with antipsychotic users experiencing a 28 percent increased risk of heart attacks and a 27 percent higher likelihood of heart failure. However, the study observed no significant effects on abnormal ventricular rhythms of the heart.
Dementia Drugs’ Troubled Legacy
Nearly 7 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Antipsychotic drugs typically come into play as a last resort after other treatments like antidepressants and anticonvulsants prove ineffective in managing severe psychological symptoms.Rethinking Antipsychotics in Dementia Care
Dr. Sheona Scales from Alzheimer’s Research UK highlights the challenge of treating dementia-related confusion and agitation: “Treatments that can help manage these symptoms are essential for a better quality of life, but options are currently limited, and in certain circumstances, antipsychotics can be used to treat severe symptoms.”Dr. Khierbek emphasized the urgency of revising antipsychotic use in dementia care, stating to The Epoch Times, “The study’s findings echo a clarion call for a stringent reassessment of antipsychotic use in dementia treatment. It underscores the necessity for healthcare providers to meticulously justify their prescribing decisions.”
Seeking Safer Alternatives
The study findings underscore the need for health care providers to be more cautious and thorough when prescribing potent antipsychotics. The authors stress, “Any potential benefits of antipsychotic treatment, therefore, need to be weighed against the risk of serious harm across multiple outcomes.”Medical experts are united in their call for research into safer and more effective treatments. They advocate for non-drug approaches like tailored behavioral interventions and environmental adjustments as viable alternatives to antipsychotics.
“The study not only serves as a stark reminder of the potential harms associated with antipsychotic medications but also as a testament to the importance of holistic, patient-centered care approaches,” Dr. Kheirbek said.
Dr. Heather Sandison, a neurocognitive medicine expert and author of “Reversing Alzheimers,” emphasizes the critical need for improved treatments. In an email to The Epoch Times, she explained, “This study helps us to better understand the risks associated with these medications,” pointing out the tough choices families make when managing a loved one’s behavioral symptoms.
She advocates for alternative approaches, observing that “families will sometimes find it impossible to find care for a loved one with behavioral issues unless their loved one is medicated.” She emphasizes that a positive approach to care, along with one-on-one care, is crucial in managing psychotic events.
In her practice, Dr. Sandison has effectively employed non-drug methods to enhance dementia care. She shares her approach, “We have found that intentionally creating a lifestyle that promotes brain health through a vegetable-rich, mildly ketogenic diet, regular physical exercise, social engagement, and cognitive play helps patients suffering with dementia improve sleep, stabilize mood, and sometimes normalize behavior.”
Dr. Sandison also expresses hope that this study will prompt the development of safer drug alternatives, noting the increasing urgency as the baby boomer generation ages.
