Alzheimer Scotland’s response to new research on anti-psychotics

Alzheimer Scotland has campaigned vigorously on the misuse of anti-psychotic medication and hosted a lecture by Professor Clive Ballard on this topic for World Alzheimer’s Day 2008. This research adds evidence to earlier studies in Scotland and anecdotal information from distressed carers, which found side effects that include excessive sedation; an increase in falls due to dizziness and unsteadiness, an almost doubling of mortality rates and double the risk of stroke in people with dementia. In addition, the research found that these drugs are being used, with no benefit, for people with mild behavioural problems.

In addition to the human costs involved, we estimate the economic cost to the public purse of inappropriate prescribing of anti-psychotics to people with dementia is between £5.3 million and £8 million in Scotland per year.

Henry Simmons, Chief Executive at Alzheimer Scotland, said, "This problem is avoidable. It stems from a lack of understanding of best practice in dementia care and the disempowered position that many people with dementia find themselves in. We have outlined the measures we believe need to be put in place at a national level to the Scottish Government and we welcome the joint inspection to be undertaken by the Care Commission and Mental Welfare Commission."

"However, we would encourage all providers to assess the extent of this problem in their services and to take measures to seek help, support and advice. Local authorities and health boards need to be receptive to this and provide additional support and training for providers; we need to be open about this problem and work together to tackle it."