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If
drugs cause such problems, why are they prescribed?
The key difficulty when using medications for behaviour
control relates to the ageing process, (remembering
that dementia effects mostly elderly people). Ageing
causes more than just wrinkles. It involves significant
chemical and hormonal changes:
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which
make the elderly far more sensitive to the effects
of drugs, and
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which
make the older body much slower at removing
drugs, thus greatly increasing the risk of serious
adverse drug reactions due to 'overdose'.
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Drug
levels quickly build up in the blood stream, which
in turn can lead to severe behavioural disturbances,
or worsening of existing behaviours. Drugs can be
life-saving and may be necessary for certain medical
conditions, but not for behaviour control. Medication
use for the elderly requires specialist knowledge
of the ageing process and close monitoring. A golden
rule is "Less (drugs) is best".
In summary,
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There
are no drugs which cure or reverse the brain
damage caused by Alzheimer's disease or other
dementias.
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Use
of medication for behavioural control should
be sought as a last resort, particularly in
the elderly (ie the majority of those with dementia),
in view of the increased risk of adverse effects.
Consider the use of non-drug approaches eg.
aromatherapy, music therapy, recreational activities
and diversional therapies.
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Medication
use in dementia is a complex area requiring
specialist medical management, and close monitoring.
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