The Use of Antipsychotics for People with Dementia: Time for Action

This report, commissioned by the UK Department of Health, is an extensive review of the use of antipsychotics, and examines the evidence base, their use in other countries, and the views of all stakeholders: clinicians, carers, managers, people with dementia, etc.

The review makes the positive finding that there are clear actions that can be taken to address the issue. It states that there are some simple actions which need to be avoided, such as prohibition or wholesale cessation of these medications and recommends a measured, planned approach in order not to compromise patient safety, causing considerable harm and leading to a paradoxical increase in distress for people with dementia and their carers.

http://www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/documents/digitalasset/dh_108302.pdf