Government commits to reducing antipsychotics for people with dementia by two thirds in a year

Government commits to reducing antipsychotics for people with dementia by two thirds in a year

The Department of Health today committed to reduce the use of antipsychotics prescribed to people with dementia by two thirds by November 2011. Speaking at the Department of Health conference, Improving Dementia Care, Paul Burstow, Minister of State for Care Services, also announced that the government would produce a plan on dementia research next year.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

 

'Nearly 150,000 people with dementia are currently having their lives put at risk because of dangerous antipsychotic medication. A large scale reduction in the scandalous levels of inappropriate prescription cannot come soon enough and we are delighted to see the government back up its previous assurances by setting a firm deadline.

'These drugs have been found to double the risk of death and treble the risk of stroke so ensuring this commitment is met is essential. As the Dementia Action Alliance has shown today with the launch of its National Dementia Declaration, tackling dementia and issues such as antipsychotics requires team work. Alzheimer's Society will do everything it can to support the Department of Health in this latest drive.'

Ruth Sutherland
Interim Chief Executive

Alzheimer's Society

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Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk

Press Office 0207 423 3595 Email: press@alzheimers.org.uk