Reduction in antipsychotic prescriptions positive

Over the last three years the number of antipsychotic drugs prescribed to people with dementia has dropped by more than half, signalling a positive downward trend.

According to a recent audit carried out by the NHS Information Centre, between 2008 and 2011 antipsychotic prescriptions reduced by 52 per cent.

There has been much research propounding the negative effects of the drugs on patients with dementia, including increased motality.

A spokesperson from the Alzheimer’s Society commented: “This momentous achievement is not just about statistics, it is about the lives of tens of thousands of people with dementia. Credit is due to the many doctors, nurses and care workers.”

However, there were strong regional variations and in some parts of the country prescriptions of antipsychotic drugs were six times higher than other areas.

This indicates that a more cohesive national strategy towards antipsychotic drugs must be rolled out to ensure all parts of the country are making an effort to lower prescriptions.

Find out about dementia care and support services at Barchester care homes.