Minister calls for new approaches on antispychotic drugs reduction

He said the drugs are killing people, increasing the risk of strokes and other life threatening conditions. Every year 1,800 people die prematurely as a result of being prescribed these drugs.

Last November the Department of Health set a target to reduce antipsychotic prescriptions to people with dementia by two thirds in a year. Early indications suggest this target has not been met. Paul Burstow said he will take whatever steps necessary to ensure inappropriate prescription levels are reduced.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'It is an absolute travesty that nearly 150,000 people with dementia are still being inappropriately prescribed dangerous antipsychotic drugs. We hear all too often from carers how antipsychotics have left their loved ones unable to walk or talk and robbed of their dignity. These drugs double the risk of death and treble the risk of stroke yet they have little benefit and should only be used as a last resort when other treatment options have failed.

'This abuse must end. The government has had two years to find a way to significantly reduce these prescription levels. Something more needs to be done. We need to see a mandatory review of antipsychotic prescriptions after 12 weeks put in place. We call on all doctors and care providers to work with us to end this chemical cosh.'

Jeremy Hughes
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 ten 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
• Alzheimer's Society and Tesco have mapped the number of people with dementia in each part of the UK and the percentage who receive a diagnosis. To view the 'Mapping the Dementia Gap' study visit alzheimers-tesco.org.uk
  

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