PHARMACOLOGICAL THERAPIES IN DEMENTIA

Objective: To review past and current pharmacologic therapies for cogn itive and behavioral problems in elderly patients with dementia. Desig n: We surveyed the pertinent medical literature and present detailed f indings on results of pharmacotherapeutic interventions for cognitive loss and behavioral disorders. Results: Numerous drugs have been used in an attempt to reverse or forestall the cognitive decline associated with dementia, Currently available agents are limited by either lack of efficacy or occurrence of adverse effects. Medications are also use d to control undesirable behaviors associated with dementia. Depending on the individual circumstance, such pharmacologic therapies may be o f limited utility, some may be harmful, and others may be effective, T he use of psychotropic agents in nursing homes is strictly regulated b y federal law, For appropriate case of elderly patients with dementia, knowledge of the available drug therapies and their effectiveness is necessary. Conclusion: Drug therapies for dementia are associated with adverse effects in the elderly population, Drugs for management of ag gressive behaviors associated with dementia should be used only when n on-drug strategies have failed, In each patient with dementia, underly ing cognitive and behavioral problems must be thoroughly evaluated for selection of the most appropriate drug.