Summary
A recent review examines current and emerging treatments for Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) in Alzheimer’s Disease. This research was first aired at the 2015 International Psychogeriatric Association Meeting. The consensus view is that non-pharmacological approaches are to be considered first when treating agitation and aggression in Alzheimer’s Disease. Should pharmacologic strategies are needed, Citalopram appears to be the highest ranked drug, followed by analgesia for treating pain; both ahead of resorting to antipsychotics. However:
“ …for psychosis, pharmacologic options, and in particular, Risperidone, were prioritized following the assessment of underlying causes. Two tailored non-drug approaches (DICE and music therapy) were agreed upon as the most promising non-pharmacologic treatment approaches for BPSD overall and agitation, with Dextromethorphan / Quinidine as a promising potential pharmacologic candidate for agitation. Regarding future treatments for psychosis, the greatest priority was placed on Pimavanserin”.
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Reference
Kales, HC. Lyketsos, CG. [and] Miller, EM. [et al] (2018). Management of behavioral and psychological symptoms in people with Alzheimer’s Disease: an international Delphi consensus. International Psychogeriatrics. August 2nd 2018: 1-8. [Epub ahead of print].
