The management of behavioural disturbances in dementia: the role of serotonergic therapies.
The behavioral and psychological signs and symptoms of dementia are common--serious disturbances that affect the quality of life for both patient and caregiver--and can lead to premature institutionalization. Recent research has focused on alterations in central serotonergic dysfunction as an important factor in the etiology of many of these disturbances, though numerous other neurotransmitter systems are also likely to be involved. The pharmacotherapy of behavioral disturbances is reviewed, focusing on serotonergic agents.
Herrmann
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Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Science Center, Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Room FG20, North York, Ontario M4N 3M5, Canada. Nathan.Herrmann@sunnybrook.on.ca
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