LAUSR

PurposeAntipsychotics (APs) are commonly used to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in elderly patients with dementia, even though several large studies have demonstrated an association between AP treatment and increased morbidity and mortality in people with dementia. The aim of this study is to review the scientific literature of the use of AP in the elderly with dementia and to propose an algorithm to assist in decision-making regarding the withdrawal of APs.MethodsA computerized literature search (MEDLINE: 1966 to December 2016, EMBASE: 1982 to December 2016) was used to locate relevant literature. Keywords in the search included terms from Medical Subject Headings (MESH) and EMBASE thesaurus (EMTREE). The following terms were used in the MESH database and EMTREE thesaurus: Aged, Antipsychotic Agents, Behavioral Symptoms and Dementia.ResultsEarlier studies of APs used in elderly patients with dementia suggest that, in most elderly demented patients, APs can be withdrawn with no effect on behaviour. These patients are likely to benefit from the algorithm we propose to assist clinicians in the withdrawal of APs.ConclusionsIn this paper, we review the potential risks and benefits of discontinuing AP treatment in elderly demented patients with NPS and propose an algorithm to assist in decision-making regarding AP withdrawal.