Review calls for action on dangerous use of antipsychotic drugs for dementia

Published 12 November 2009

Woman with reassuring hand on man's back

An independent review has found that an estimated 150,000 people with dementia in the UK are being inappropriately prescribed antipsychotic drugs and these are contributing to 1,800 deaths a year.

Antipsychotics have a serious number of side-effects for people with dementia and a profound effect on people's quality of life, leaving them heavily sedated. They double the risk of death, triple the risk of stroke and accelerate cognitive decline. Care Services Minister, Phil Hope, announced a new action plan to tackle the issue

Alzheimer's Society comment,

'This, long awaited, landmark review is a welcome recognition of the scale of the issue and Alzheimer's Society's view that these drugs should only ever be used as a last resort. The scandalous over prescription of antipsychotic drugs leads to an estimated 1,800 deaths a year, it must end.
The report suggests prescriptions could be reduced by two thirds in three years, this is vital and the new action plan cannot afford to fail. Change will only be achieved with commitment from government, PCTs and health professionals and clear local targets. Almost 150,000 people are being inappropriately prescribed these drugs as a chemical restraint . Today must mark a change in dementia care.'

Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society