Using risperidone for Alzheimer's dementia-associated psychosis.
BACKGROUND
Alzheimer's dementia (AD) occurs in 6 - 8% of persons older than 65 years. The prevalence increases to 30% among those 85 years or older. Among AD patients, the incidence of psychosis is 30 - 50%. Safe and appropriate use of psychotropic agents is a relevant clinical concern for this population.


OBJECTIVE
This review addresses risks and potential benefits when risperidone is used for treating AD-associated psychosis.


METHODS
Through literature review and clinical experience, the authors discuss the clinical efficacy, safety, and regulatory issues concerning risperidone treatment for this group of patients.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite concerns about safety, risperidone remains a popular therapeutic choice for AD patients with psychosis. Subsets of these patients with more severe agitation and aggression may experience greater behavioral benefit.
McNeal
Karleen M
KM
Alzheimer's Research and Clinical Programs, VA Medical Center and Medical University of South Carolina, Geriatrics and Extended Care, Charleston, SC, 29406-6076, USA.
Meyer
Renee P
RP
Lukacs
Karen
K
Senseney
Anna
A
Mintzer
Jacob
J
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000150:complications*; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D018967:Risperidone / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D018967:Risperidone