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Ott BR, Hollins C, Tjia J, Baek J, Chen Q, Lapane KL, Alcusky M. Antidementia Medication Use in Nursing Home Residents. J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2024; 37:194-205. [PMID: 37715795 PMCID: PMC10947315 DOI: 10.1177/08919887231202948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antidementia medication can provide symptomatic improvements in patients with Alzheimer's disease, but there is a lack of consensus guidance on when to start and stop treatment in the nursing home setting. METHODS We describe utilization patterns of cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEI) and memantine for 3,50,197 newly admitted NH residents with dementia between 2011 and 2018. RESULTS Overall, pre-admission use of antidementia medications declined from 2011 to 2018 (ChEIs: 44.5% to 36.9%; memantine: 27.4% to 23.2%). Older age, use of a feeding tube, and greater functional dependency were associated with lower odds of ChEI initiation. Coronary artery disease, parenteral nutrition, severe aggressive behaviors, severe cognitive impairment, and high functional dependency were associated with discontinuation of ChEIs. Comparison of clinical factors related to anti-dementia drug treatment changes from pre to post NH admission in 2011 and 2018 revealed a change toward lower likelihood of initiation of treatment among residents with more functional dependency and those with indicators of more complex illness as well as a change toward higher likelihood of discontinuation in residents having 2 or more hospital stays. CONCLUSIONS These prescribing trends highlight the need for additional research on the effects of initiating and discontinuing antidementia medications in the NH to provide clear guidance for clinicians when making treatment decisions for individual residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian R. Ott
- Department of Neurology, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI
| | - Carl Hollins
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Jennifer Tjia
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Jonggyu Baek
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Qiaoxi Chen
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Kate L. Lapane
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
| | - Matthew Alcusky
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA
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Zang L, Liu X, Li Y, Liu J, Lu Q, Zhang Y, Meng Q. The effect of light therapy on sleep disorders and psychobehavioral symptoms in patients with Alzheimer's disease: A meta-analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293977. [PMID: 38055651 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although Alzheimer's disease (AD) mainly affects cognitive function, it is often accompanied by sleep disorders and psychobehavioral symptoms. These symptoms, including depression, agitation, and psychotic symptoms, are prominent hospitalization causes among patients with AD. Currently, relatively more research exists on light therapy for sleep disorders, while those on psychobehavioral symptoms are gradually increasing. However, no consensus exists on these results because of the vulnerability of light therapy to multiple factors, including light intensity and duration. Thus, further research investigating this aspect is warranted. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of light therapy in improving sleep disorders and psychobehavioural symptoms in patients with AD. METHODS In this meta-analysis, relevant literature was searched in Embase, the Clinical Trials Registry, Web of Science, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library up to December 2022. Furthermore, a fixed-effects model was used for data analysis. RESULTS Fifteen randomized controlled trials involving 598 patients with AD were included. In the case of sleep disorders, our meta-analysis revealed that light therapy significantly improved sleep efficiency (MD = -2.42, 95% CI = -3.37 to -1.48, p < 0.00001), increased interdaily stability (MD = -0.04, 95% CI = -0.05 to -0.03, p < 0.00001), and reduced intradaily variability (MD = -0.07, 95% CI = -0.10 to -0.05, p < 0.00001). With respect to psychotic behavior, light therapy was found to alleviate depression (MD = -2.55, 95% CI = -2.98 to -2.12, p < 0.00001) as well as reduce agitation (MD = -3.97, 95% CI = -5.09 to -2.84, p < 0.00001) and caregiver burden (MD = -3.57, 95% CI = -5.28 to -1.87, p < 0.00001). CONCLUSION Light therapy leads to significant improvement in sleep and psychobehavioral symptoms and is associated with relatively fewer side effects in patients with AD, indicating its potential as a promising treatment option for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Zang
- School of Nursing, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiaotong Liu
- School of Nursing, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yu Li
- School of Nursing, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jiang Liu
- School of Nursing, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qiuying Lu
- School of Nursing, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- School of Nursing, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Qinghui Meng
- School of Nursing, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
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Pathogenesis and Personalized Interventions for Pharmacological Treatment-Resistant Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer’s Disease. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12091365. [PMID: 36143150 PMCID: PMC9501542 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12091365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, with cognitive impairment as a core symptom. Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) also occur as non-cognitive symptoms during the disease course, worsening the prognosis. Recent treatment guidelines for NPSs have recommended non-pharmacological treatments as the first line of therapy, followed by pharmacological treatments. However, pharmacological treatment for urgent NPSs can be difficult because of a lack of efficacy or an intolerance, requiring multiple changes in psychotropic prescriptions. One biological factor that might be partly responsible for this difficulty is structural deterioration in elderly people with dementia, which may cause a functional vulnerability affecting the pharmacological response. Other causative factors might include awkward psychosocial interpersonal relations between patients and their caregiver, resulting in distressful vicious circles. Overlapping NPS sub-symptoms can also blur the prioritization of targeted symptoms. Furthermore, consistent neurocognitive reductions cause a primary apathy state and a secondary distorted ideation or perception of present objects, leading to reactions that cannot be treated pharmacologically. The present review defines treatment-resistant NPSs in AD; it may be necessary and helpful for clinicians to discuss the pathogenesis and comprehensive solutions based on three major hypothetical pathophysiological viewpoints: (1) biology, (2) psychosociology, and (3) neurocognition.
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Taylor-Rowan M, Kraia O, Kolliopoulou C, Noel-Storr AH, Alharthi AA, Cross AJ, Stewart C, Myint PK, McCleery J, Quinn TJ. Anticholinergic burden for prediction of cognitive decline or neuropsychiatric symptoms in older adults with mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 8:CD015196. [PMID: 35994403 PMCID: PMC9394684 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd015196.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medications with anticholinergic properties are commonly prescribed to older adults with a pre-existing diagnosis of dementia or cognitive impairment. The cumulative anticholinergic effect of all the medications a person takes is referred to as the anticholinergic burden because of its potential to cause adverse effects. It is possible that a high anticholinergic burden may be a risk factor for further cognitive decline or neuropsychiatric disturbances in people with dementia. Neuropsychiatric disturbances are the most frequent complication of dementia that require hospitalisation, accounting for almost half of admissions; hence, identification of modifiable prognostic factors for these outcomes is crucial. There are various scales available to measure anticholinergic burden but agreement between them is often poor. OBJECTIVES Our primary objective was to assess whether anticholinergic burden, as defined at the level of each individual scale, was a prognostic factor for further cognitive decline or neuropsychiatric disturbances in older adults with pre-existing diagnoses of dementia or cognitive impairment. Our secondary objective was to investigate whether anticholinergic burden was a prognostic factor for other adverse clinical outcomes, including mortality, impaired physical function, and institutionalisation. SEARCH METHODS We searched these databases from inception to 29 November 2021: MEDLINE OvidSP, Embase OvidSP, PsycINFO OvidSP, CINAHL EBSCOhost, and ISI Web of Science Core Collection on ISI Web of Science. SELECTION CRITERIA We included prospective and retrospective longitudinal cohort and case-control observational studies, with a minimum of one-month follow-up, which examined the association between an anticholinergic burden measurement scale and the above stated adverse clinical outcomes, in older adults with pre-existing diagnoses of dementia or cognitive impairment. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently assessed studies for inclusion, and undertook data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and GRADE assessment. We summarised risk associations between anticholinergic burden and all clinical outcomes in a narrative fashion. We also evaluated the risk association between anticholinergic burden and mortality using a random-effects meta-analysis. We established adjusted pooled rates for the anticholinergic cognitive burden (ACB) scale; then, as an exploratory analysis, established pooled rates on the prespecified association across scales. MAIN RESULTS: We identified 18 studies that met our inclusion criteria (102,684 older adults). Anticholinergic burden was measured using five distinct measurement scales: 12 studies used the ACB scale; 3 studies used the Anticholinergic Risk Scale (ARS); 1 study used the Anticholinergic Drug Scale (ADS); 1 study used the Anticholinergic Effect on Cognition (AEC) Scale; and 2 studies used a list developed by Tune and Egeli. Risk associations between anticholinergic burden and adverse clinical outcomes were highly heterogenous. Four out of 10 (40%) studies reported a significantly increased risk of greater long-term cognitive decline for participants with an anticholinergic burden compared to participants with no or minimal anticholinergic burden. No studies investigated neuropsychiatric disturbance outcomes. One out of four studies (25%) reported a significant association with reduced physical function for participants with an anticholinergic burden versus participants with no or minimal anticholinergic burden. No study (out of one investigating study) reported a significant association between anticholinergic burden and risk of institutionalisation. Six out of 10 studies (60%) found a significantly increased risk of mortality for those with an anticholinergic burden compared to those with no or minimal anticholinergic burden. Pooled analysis of adjusted mortality hazard ratios (HR) measured anticholinergic burden with the ACB scale, and suggested a significantly increased risk of death for those with a high ACB score relative to those with no or minimal ACB scores (HR 1.153, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.030 to 1.292; 4 studies, 48,663 participants). An exploratory pooled analysis of adjusted mortality HRs across anticholinergic burden scales also suggested a significantly increased risk of death for those with a high anticholinergic burden (HR 1.102, 95% CI 1.044 to 1.163; 6 studies, 68,381 participants). Overall GRADE evaluation of results found low- or very low-certainty evidence for all outcomes. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There is low-certainty evidence that older adults with dementia or cognitive impairment who have a significant anticholinergic burden may be at increased risk of death. No firm conclusions can be drawn for risk of accelerated cognitive decline, neuropsychiatric disturbances, decline in physical function, or institutionalisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Taylor-Rowan
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Olga Kraia
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | - Ahmed A Alharthi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Umm Al Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amanda J Cross
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Australia
| | | | - Phyo K Myint
- Division of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | - Terry J Quinn
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Parsons C, Lim WY, Loy C, McGuinness B, Passmore P, Ward SA, Hughes C. Withdrawal or continuation of cholinesterase inhibitors or memantine or both, in people with dementia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 2:CD009081. [PMID: 35608903 PMCID: PMC8094886 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009081.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dementia is a progressive syndrome characterised by deterioration in memory, thinking and behaviour, and by impaired ability to perform daily activities. Two classes of drug - cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, galantamine and rivastigmine) and memantine - are widely licensed for dementia due to Alzheimer's disease, and rivastigmine is also licensed for Parkinson's disease dementia. These drugs are prescribed to alleviate symptoms and delay disease progression in these and sometimes in other forms of dementia. There are uncertainties about the benefits and adverse effects of these drugs in the long term and in severe dementia, about effects of withdrawal, and about the most appropriate time to discontinue treatment. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effects of withdrawal or continuation of cholinesterase inhibitors or memantine, or both, in people with dementia on: cognitive, neuropsychiatric and functional outcomes, rates of institutionalisation, adverse events, dropout from trials, mortality, quality of life and carer-related outcomes. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group's Specialised Register up to 17 October 2020 using terms appropriate for the retrieval of studies of cholinesterase inhibitors or memantine. The Specialised Register contains records of clinical trials identified from monthly searches of a number of major healthcare databases, numerous trial registries and grey literature sources. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all randomised, controlled clinical trials (RCTs) which compared withdrawal of cholinesterase inhibitors or memantine, or both, with continuation of the same drug or drugs. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed citations and full-text articles for inclusion, extracted data from included trials and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Where trials were sufficiently similar, we pooled data for outcomes in the short term (up to 2 months after randomisation), medium term (3-11 months) and long term (12 months or more). We assessed the overall certainty of the evidence for each outcome using GRADE methods. MAIN RESULTS We included six trials investigating cholinesterase inhibitor withdrawal, and one trial investigating withdrawal of either donepezil or memantine. No trials assessed withdrawal of memantine only. Drugs were withdrawn abruptly in five trials and stepwise in two trials. All participants had dementia due to Alzheimer's disease, with severities ranging from mild to very severe, and were taking cholinesterase inhibitors without known adverse effects at baseline. The included trials randomised 759 participants to treatment groups relevant to this review. Study duration ranged from 6 weeks to 12 months. There were too few included studies to allow planned subgroup analyses. We considered some studies to be at unclear or high risk of selection, performance, detection, attrition or reporting bias. Compared to continuing cholinesterase inhibitors, discontinuing treatment may be associated with worse cognitive function in the short term (standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.42, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.64 to -0.21; 4 studies; low certainty), but the effect in the medium term is very uncertain (SMD -0.40, 95% CI -0.87 to 0.07; 3 studies; very low certainty). In a sensitivity analysis omitting data from a study which only included participants who had shown a relatively poor prior response to donepezil, inconsistency was reduced and we found that cognitive function may be worse in the discontinuation group in the medium term (SMD -0.62; 95% CI -0.94 to -0.31). Data from one longer-term study suggest that discontinuing a cholinesterase inhibitor is probably associated with worse cognitive function at 12 months (mean difference (MD) -2.09 Standardised Mini-Mental State Examination (SMMSE) points, 95% CI -3.43 to -0.75; moderate certainty). Discontinuation may make little or no difference to functional status in the short term (SMD -0.25, 95% CI -0.54 to 0.04; 2 studies; low certainty), and its effect in the medium term is uncertain (SMD -0.38, 95% CI -0.74 to -0.01; 2 studies; very low certainty). After 12 months, discontinuing a cholinesterase inhibitor probably results in greater functional impairment than continuing treatment (MD -3.38 Bristol Activities of Daily Living Scale (BADLS) points, 95% CI -6.67 to -0.10; one study; moderate certainty). Discontinuation may be associated with a worsening of neuropsychiatric symptoms over the short term and medium term, although we cannot exclude a minimal effect (SMD - 0.48, 95% CI -0.82 to -0.13; 2 studies; low certainty; and SMD -0.27, 95% CI -0.47 to -0.08; 3 studies; low certainty, respectively). Data from one study suggest that discontinuing a cholinesterase inhibitor may result in little to no change in neuropsychiatric status at 12 months (MD -0.87 Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) points; 95% CI -8.42 to 6.68; moderate certainty). We found no clear evidence of an effect of discontinuation on dropout due to lack of medication efficacy or deterioration in overall medical condition (odds ratio (OR) 1.53, 95% CI 0.84 to 2.76; 4 studies; low certainty), on number of adverse events (OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.27; 4 studies; low certainty) or serious adverse events (OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.46 to 1.39; 4 studies; low certainty), and on mortality (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.36 to 1.55; 5 studies; low certainty). Institutionalisation was reported in one trial, but it was not possible to extract data for the groups relevant to this review. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This review suggests that discontinuing cholinesterase inhibitors may result in worse cognitive, neuropsychiatric and functional status than continuing treatment, although this is supported by limited evidence, almost all of low or very low certainty. As all participants had dementia due to Alzheimer's disease, our findings are not transferable to other dementia types. We were unable to determine whether the effects of discontinuing cholinesterase inhibitors differed with baseline dementia severity. There is currently no evidence to guide decisions about discontinuing memantine. There is a need for further well-designed RCTs, across a range of dementia severities and settings. We are aware of two ongoing registered trials. In making decisions about discontinuing these drugs, clinicians should exercise caution, considering the evidence from existing trials along with other factors important to patients and their carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Parsons
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Wei Yin Lim
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology, Institute for Clinical Research, National Institutes of Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Shah Alam, Malaysia
| | - Clement Loy
- Brain and Mind Centre and Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Peter Passmore
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Stephanie A Ward
- Monash Aging Research Center, The Kingston Centre, Cheltenham, Australia
| | - Carmel Hughes
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Leung SL, Tanaka H, Kwok TCY. Development of Chinese Versions of Quality of Life in Late-Stage Dementia and Cognitive Tests for Severe Dementia. Dement Geriatr Cogn Dis Extra 2021; 10:172-181. [PMID: 33442394 PMCID: PMC7772874 DOI: 10.1159/000511703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Valid assessments of quality of life (QoL) and cognition are important in caring for individuals with severe dementia; there is an urgent need for validated assessment tools for specific populations. This study aimed to develop and validate Chinese versions of the Quality of Life in Late-Stage Dementia (QUALID-C) scale and the Cognitive Test for Severe Dementia (CTSD-C) for Chinese older adults. Methods This was a cross-sectional validation study comprised of 93 Chinese older adults with severe dementia recruited from 6 residential homes. The content and cultural validity of the QUALID-C and CTSD-C were evaluated by a 7-member expert panel, and interrater reliability, test-retest reliability, internal consistency, concurrent validity, and factorial structure were examined. Results The QUALID-C showed acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.65), good interrater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.99), and good test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.96). Principal component analysis yielded 3 factors; the items loaded on the factors were comparable to those in previous studies and suggested the scale's multidimensionality to measure QoL. The CTSD-C showed satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.862), good interrater reliability (ICC = 0.99), and good test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.958). Principal component analysis yielded 3 factors; the items loaded on factors 1 and 2 resembled the items of the automatic response and attentional control factors of the original study. Conclusion The QUALID-C and the CTSD-C are reliable and valid scales to measure the QoL and cognitive functions of Chinese older adults with severe dementia. These assessments can be utilized to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and future research work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suet-Lai Leung
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Tung Wah College, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Hiroyuki Tanaka
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Timothy C Y Kwok
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Jockey Club Centre for Positive Ageing, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Maclagan LC, Bronskill SE, Campitelli MA, Yao S, Dharma C, Hogan DB, Herrmann N, Amuah JE, Maxwell CJ. Resident-Level Predictors of Dementia Pharmacotherapy at Long-Term Care Admission: The Impact of Different Drug Reimbursement Policies in Ontario and Saskatchewan: Prédicteurs de la pharmacothérapie de la démence au niveau des résidents lors de l'hospitalisation dans des soins de longue durée : l'impact de différentes politiques de remboursement des médicaments en Ontario et en Saskatchewan. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2020; 65:790-801. [PMID: 32274934 PMCID: PMC7564697 DOI: 10.1177/0706743720909293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) and memantine are approved for Alzheimer disease in Canada. Regional drug reimbursement policies are associated with cross-provincial variation in ChEI use, but it is unclear how these policies influence predictors of use. Using standardized data from two provinces with differing policies, we compared resident-level characteristics associated with dementia pharmacotherapy at long-term care (LTC) admission. METHODS Using linked clinical and administrative databases, we examined characteristics associated with dementia pharmacotherapy use among residents with dementia and/or significant cognitive impairment admitted to LTC facilities in Saskatchewan (more restrictive reimbursement policies; n = 10,599) and Ontario (less restrictive; n = 93,331) between April 1, 2009, and March 31, 2015. Multivariable logistic regression models were utilized to assess resident demographic, functional, and clinical characteristics associated with dementia pharmacotherapy. RESULTS On admission, 8.1% of Saskatchewan residents were receiving dementia pharmacotherapy compared to 33.2% in Ontario. In both provinces, residents with severe cognitive impairment, aggressive behaviors, and recent antipsychotic use were more likely to receive dementia pharmacotherapy; while those who were unmarried, admitted in later years, had a greater degree of frailty, and recent hospitalizations were less likely. The direction of the association for older age, rural residency, medication number, and anticholinergic therapy differed between provinces. CONCLUSIONS While more restrictive criteria for dementia pharmacotherapy coverage in Saskatchewan resulted in fewer residents entering LTC on dementia pharmacotherapy, there were relatively few differences in the factors associated with use across provinces. Longitudinal studies are needed to assess how differences in prevalence and characteristics associated with use impact patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Susan E. Bronskill
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Evaluative Clinical Sciences and Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Programs, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Shenzhen Yao
- Saskatchewan Health Quality Council, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | | | - David B. Hogan
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Nathan Herrmann
- Evaluative Clinical Sciences and Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Programs, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joseph E. Amuah
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Colleen J. Maxwell
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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8
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Tanaka H, Nagata Y, Ishimaru D, Ogawa Y, Fukuhara K, Nishikawa T. Clinical factors associated with activities of daily living and their decline in patients with severe dementia. Psychogeriatrics 2020; 20:327-336. [PMID: 31883310 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.12502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To identify the clinical factors affecting activities of daily living (ADL) at baseline and after 6 months. METHODS We conducted a single-centre observational study at two time points across 6 months (baseline and after 6 months) from April 2015 to March 2017. in a 270-bed rural recuperation hospital at Hyogo prefecture in Japan. The total number of participants was 131 (male 33, female 98; mean age: 87.0 ± 7.0; mild and moderate dementia, 38; severe dementia, 93). Measurement scales used were Personal Self-Maintenance Scale (PSMS) for assessing ADL, Mini-Mental State Examination and Cognitive Test in Severe Dementia (CTSD) for cognitive function, Neuropsychiatric Inventory-Nursing Home version and Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD) for behavioural/psychological symptoms of dementia, Mini Nutritional Assessment Short form (MNA-SF) for nutritional status, Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia for pain, and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and the number of illness categories based on Cumulative Illness Rating Scale Geriatrics for comorbidities. Multiple regression analyses identified the association between PSMS score as the dependent variable and other variables as independent variables. RESULTS In participants with severe dementia, the PSMS scores at baseline were significantly associated with CTSD, CCI, MNA-SF, and CSDD scores. In the longitudinal analysis, only CTSD score was significantly associated with PSMS score after 6 months. It is noteworthy that for participants with severe dementia, the only factor associated with ADL after 6 months was cognitive function, as assessed by CTSD score. CONCLUSIONS The most important factor predicting functional decline is cognitive function, even at the severe and profound stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Tanaka
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Osaka Prefecture University, Habikino, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuma Nagata
- Department of Psychiatry, Course of Integrated Medicine, Osaka University, Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Daiki Ishimaru
- Department of Psychiatry, Course of Integrated Medicine, Osaka University, Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Ogawa
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Osaka Prefecture University, Habikino, Osaka, Japan
| | - Keita Fukuhara
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Osaka Prefecture University, Habikino, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takashi Nishikawa
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Osaka Prefecture University, Habikino, Osaka, Japan
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Nagata T, Shinagawa S, Nakajima S, Noda Y, Mimura M. Pharmacological management of behavioral disturbances in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2020; 21:1093-1102. [DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2020.1745186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Nagata
- Department of Psychiatry, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry, Airanomori Hospital, Kagoshima, Japan
| | | | - Shinichiro Nakajima
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Noda
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaru Mimura
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Ishimaru D, Tanaka H, Nagata Y, Takabatake S, Nishikawa T. Physical Activity in Severe Dementia Is Associated With Agitation Rather Than Cognitive Function. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2020; 35:1533317519871397. [PMID: 31533445 PMCID: PMC10624062 DOI: 10.1177/1533317519871397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The authors examined associations between physical activity, cognitive function, activities of daily living, and behavioral and psychological dementia symptoms (BPSD) in severe and moderate dementia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess severe and moderate dementia groups according to the Clinical Dementia Rating. An actigraphy measured physical activity. Other measures included Mini-Mental State Examination, Cognitive Test for Severe Dementia, Hyogo Activities of Daily Living Scale, and Neuropsychiatric Inventory-Nursing Home. RESULTS Sixty-three participants were assessed (mean age = 89.3 ± 6.4). Physical activity was not associated with cognitive function among participants with severe dementia, although there was a trend-level association with cognitive function among those with moderate dementia. Physical activity was significantly associated with BPSD, specifically agitation/aggression symptoms, for participants with severe dementia, and there was a trend-level association with anxiety for participants with moderate dementia. CONCLUSIONS Physical activity appears to be associated with BPSD among individuals in the advanced stages of dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiki Ishimaru
- Course of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School, Habikino-City, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Healthcare Corporation Seifuuen Imai Hospital, Kitataharaaza, Inagawacho, Kawabegun, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Tanaka
- Course of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School, Habikino-City, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuma Nagata
- Course of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School, Habikino-City, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Healthcare Corporation Seifuuen Imai Hospital, Kitataharaaza, Inagawacho, Kawabegun, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Takabatake
- Course of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School, Habikino-City, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takashi Nishikawa
- Course of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School, Habikino-City, Osaka, Japan
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Ah YM, Han E, Jun K, Yu YM, Lee JY. Change in sedative burden after dementia onset using difference-in-difference estimations. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0220582. [PMID: 31374112 PMCID: PMC6677315 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0220582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sedative agents are avoided in older adults because of potential risks including cognitive impairment, fall, frailty, and mortality. However, no studies addressing both prediagnostic and postdiagnostic period of dementia have evaluated sedative agent usage over an extended period. Objectives To describe a longitudinal change in sedative medication use before and after the diagnosis with dementia over 10 years compared to patients without dementia. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study using longitudinal claims data for senior national health insurance beneficiaries. After 1:4 propensity score matching, 54,165 older patients (≥60 years) were included. Difference-in-difference (DID) of sedative burden and use of sedative agents pre- and post-dementia diagnosis were estimated, and compared to those of patients without dementia. The yearly average daily sedative load (adSL) for each individual was calculated after applying duration, dose, and sedative score of medications from the sedative load model. The medication use for each sedative category was calculated using the defined daily dose (DDD) per 1000 patient-days. Results The adSL in patients with dementia was consistently high before and after diagnosis and significantly increased after diagnosis, compared to those of patients without dementia (DID 0.123 unit/day, 95% confidence interval 0.117–0.129). DID of medication use was the highest for antidepressants (64.764 DDD/1000 patient-days) followed by Z-drugs and antipsychotics. Atypical antipsychotic and antidepressant usage steeply increased after dementia diagnosis. Conclusion Sedative burden in patients with dementia before and after dementia diagnosis was higher than that in patients without dementia, and was further increased after dementia diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Mi Ah
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Euna Han
- College of Pharmacy, Yonsei Institute for Pharmaceutical Research, Yonsei University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwanghee Jun
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Mi Yu
- College of Pharmacy, Yonsei Institute for Pharmaceutical Research, Yonsei University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Yeun Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review presents the latest developments covered in the literature regarding psychosis in neurodegenerative disorders and discusses possible future research directions. RECENT FINDINGS Recent findings in the field of psychosis and neurodegenerative disorders revolve around four main themes. The first theme is the impact of sex on the expression of psychosis in neurodegenerative disorders. The second theme focuses on the relationship between psychosis and neurodegenerative disease biomarkers. The third concerns how psychotic symptoms in neurodegenerative disorders may share common mechanisms with other primary psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Finally, there have been some promising developments in the area of therapeutics to treat dementia-related psychosis involving both established and novel treatments. SUMMARY New findings in the field of neurodegeneration and psychosis parallel new directions in the field of neurodegeneration in general. More specifically, we have seen a shift in focus to issues highlighting the role of sex, biomarkers, translation to other disorders, and therapeutics.
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Ashton NJ, Leuzy A, Lim YM, Troakes C, Hortobágyi T, Höglund K, Aarsland D, Lovestone S, Schöll M, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Hye A. Increased plasma neurofilament light chain concentration correlates with severity of post-mortem neurofibrillary tangle pathology and neurodegeneration. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2019; 7:5. [PMID: 30626432 PMCID: PMC6327431 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-018-0649-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is pathologically characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques, neurofibrillary tangles and widespread neuronal loss in the brain. In recent years, blood biomarkers have emerged as a realistic prospect to highlight accumulating pathology for secondary prevention trials. Neurofilament light chain (NfL), a marker of axonal degeneration, is robustly elevated in the blood of many neurological and neurodegenerative conditions, including AD. A strong relationship with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) NfL suggests that these biomarker modalities reflect the same pathological process. Yet, the connection between blood NfL and brain tissue pathology has not been directly compared. In this study, longitudinal plasma NfL from cognitively healthy controls (n = 12) and AD participants (n = 57) were quantified by the Simoa platform. On reaching post-mortem, neuropathological assessment was performed on all participants, with additional frozen and paraffin-embedded tissue acquired from 26 participants for further biochemical (Aβ1–42, Aβ1–40, tau) and histological (NfL) evaluation. Plasma NfL concentrations were significantly increased in AD and correlated with cognitive decline, independent of age. Retrospective stratification based on Braak staging revealed that baseline plasma NfL concentrations were associated with higher neurofibrillary tangle pathology at post-mortem. Longitudinal increases in plasma NfL were observed in all Braak groupings; a significant negative association, however, was found between plasma NfL at time point 1 and both its rate of change and annual percentage increase. Immunohistochemical evaluation of NfL in the medial temporal gyrus (MTG) demonstrated an inverse relationship between Braak stages and NfL staining. Importantly, a significant negative correlation was found between the plasma NfL measurement closest to death and the level of NfL staining in the MTG at post-mortem. For the first time, we demonstrate that plasma NfL associates with the severity of neurofibrillary tangle pathology and neurodegeneration in the post-mortem brain.
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Nagata T, Shinagawa S, Nakajima S, Mimura M, Shigeta M. Association between Neuropsychiatric Improvement and Neurocognitive Change in Alzheimer’s Disease: Analysis of the CATIE-AD Study. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 66:139-148. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-180304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Nagata
- Department of Psychiatry, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Shinichiro Nakajima
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaru Mimura
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Shigeta
- Department of Psychiatry, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Tanaka H, Nagata Y, Ishimaru D, Ogawa Y, Fukuhara K, Nishikawa T. Clinical Utility of the Cognitive Test for Severe Dementia: Factor Analysis, Minimal Detectable Change, and Longitudinal Changes. Dement Geriatr Cogn Dis Extra 2018; 8:214-225. [PMID: 29983704 PMCID: PMC6031943 DOI: 10.1159/000488937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims This study sought to conduct additional analyses of the Cognitive Test for Severe Dementia (CTSD) using the COSMIN checklist to ensure the development of adequate outcome measures. Methods The following analyses were conducted: (1) factor analyses were used to evaluate construct validity; (2) the standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC) were assessed to evaluate reliability and interpretability; and (3) longitudinal change was assessed to evaluate responsiveness. Results The CTSD factor analysis yielded 2 factors, each of which was dichotomized by the passage rate of each item. We calculated a SEM and MDC of 1.6 and 3.6 points, respectively. Finally, the mean CTSD score showed a significant reduction (p < 0.001) over time, and the change in score exceeded the SEM and MDC. Conclusion Our results indicate that the CTSD could provide a reliable outcome measure in severe dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Tanaka
- Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Habikino City, Japan
| | - Yuma Nagata
- Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Habikino City, Japan
| | - Daiki Ishimaru
- Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Habikino City, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Ogawa
- Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Habikino City, Japan
| | - Keita Fukuhara
- Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Habikino City, Japan
| | - Takashi Nishikawa
- Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Habikino City, Japan
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Nagata T, Nakajima S, Shinagawa S, Plitman E, Nakayama K, Graff-Guerrero A, Mimura M. Baseline Predictors of Antipsychotic Treatment Continuation and Response at Week 8 in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease with Psychosis or Aggressive Symptoms: An Analysis of the CATIE-AD Study. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 60:263-272. [PMID: 28800334 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to investigate predictors of atypical antipsychotic (AAP) treatment continuation and response by week 8 in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) who have psychotic/aggressive symptoms using the Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness-Alzheimer's Disease (CATIE-AD) dataset. METHODS Clinical data was utilized from 421 AD outpatients with psychotic/aggressive symptoms who needed interventional treatment. Logistic regression analyses were performed to examine which baseline sociodemographic and clinical characteristics contributed to treatment 'continuation' and 'response', the latter of which was evaluated by the Clinical Global Impression of Change (CGI-C), Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), and Brief Psychiatric Scale (BPRS). RESULTS The treatment continuation rate was 48.7%, and CGI-C, NPI, and BPRS response rate by the last observation carried forward method were 42.7%, 48.6%, and 37.5%, respectively. No significant predictor was identified for treatment continuation in the Caucasian patients (n = 331), while better treatment response was predicted by a lower Mini-Mental State Examination score, treatment with risperidone (versus olanzapine and quetiapine), history of diabetes mellitus, healthier physical status, and more severe initial psychotic symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Comparatively high intolerability from AAPs in the short term was confirmed. We found that baseline clinical predictors to treatment response in Caucasian AD patients with psychotic/aggressive symptoms include treatment with risperidone (versus quetiapine and olanzapine), diabetes mellitus, global physical status, cognitive impairment, and psychotic symptoms. Going forward, these findings may help to determine treatment strategies or care plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Nagata
- Department of Psychiatry, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichiro Nakajima
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,Geriatric Mental Health Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Eric Plitman
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kazuhiko Nakayama
- Department of Psychiatry, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ariel Graff-Guerrero
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Masaru Mimura
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Erkes J, Camp CJ, Raffard S, Gély-Nargeot and MC, Bayard S. Assessment of capabilities in persons with advanced stage of dementia: Validation of The Montessori Assessment System (MAS). DEMENTIA 2017; 18:1840-1857. [DOI: 10.1177/1471301217729533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the validity and reliability of the Montessori Assessment System. The Montessori Assessment System assesses preserved abilities in persons with moderate to severe dementia. In this respect, this instrument provides crucial information for the development of effective person-centered care plans. A total of 196 persons with a diagnosis of dementia in the moderate to severe stages of dementia were recruited in 10 long-term care facilities in France. All participants completed the Montessori Assessment System, the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale and/or the Mini Mental State Examination and the Severe Impairment Battery-short form. The internal consistency and temporal stability of the Montessori Assessment System were high. Additionally, good construct and divergent validity were demonstrated. Factor analysis showed a one-factor structure. The Montessori Assessment System demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties while being a useful instrument to assess capabilities in persons with advanced stages of dementia and hence to develop person-centered plans of care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stéphane Raffard
- Laboratoire Epsylon, Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, Montpellier, France; Service Universitaire de Psychiatrie Adulte, Centre Hospitalier Regional Universitaire de Montpellier, Hospital La Colombière, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Sophie Bayard
- Laboratoire Epsylon, Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, Montpellier, France
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18
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Tanaka H, Nagata Y, Uematsu M, Takebayashi T, Hanada K, Inokawa M, Fukuhara K, Ogawa Y, Haga D, Kakegawa Y, Nishikawa T. Development of the Cognitive Test for Severe Dementia. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2016; 40:94-106. [PMID: 26043780 DOI: 10.1159/000430089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Existing cognitive measures for moderate-to-severe dementia have shown floor effects and an inability to assess the remaining cognitive function, especially for profound dementia. METHODS We constructed the Cognitive Test for Severe Dementia (CTSD), which consists of 13 items covering 7 cognitive domains, and examined its reliability and validity. RESULTS Cronbach's α in severe dementia participants was 0.896. Interrater and test-retest reliability were 0.961 and 0.969, respectively. The CTSD showed a significant correlation with 3 other measures of cognitive function (Mini-Mental State Examination, Severe Cognitive Impairment Rating Scale, and Hasegawa Dementia Scale-Revised: r values = 0.870-0.922, p values <0.001). While the other measures showed floor effects, the CTSD did not. CONCLUSION The CTSD was able to sensitively capture the remaining cognitive function in severe dementia patients when compared with other cognitive tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Tanaka
- Osaka Prefecture University Graduate School of Comprehensive Rehabilitation, Habikino, Japan
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Duong S, Yeung KT, Chang F. Intramuscular Olanzapine in the Management of Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms in Hospitalized Older Adults: A Retrospective Descriptive Study. J Aging Res 2015; 2015:570410. [PMID: 26090227 PMCID: PMC4458274 DOI: 10.1155/2015/570410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. While behavioral and psychological symptoms are frequent in hospitalized older adults with dementia or delirium, data supporting the off-label use of intramuscular atypical antipsychotics remain scarce. We examined the use of short-acting intramuscular (IM) olanzapine in hospitalized older adults to manage behavioral and psychological symptoms. Methods. A retrospective observational study of inpatients 65 years or older with at least one order for olanzapine IM during admission in urban Ontario Canada was conducted. Patient demographics, prescriptions for olanzapine IM, reason for administration, perceived effectiveness, adverse events, concurrently prescribed psychotropics, comorbidities, and patient discharge destination were recorded. Results. Among 82 patients aged 65-96 years (mean ± SD 79.3 ± 7.7) 85 cases were identified. Cognitive impairment or dementia affected 63.5% and 50.6% had comorbidities. Olanzapine IM was ordered 102 times and 34 patients (41%) received at least one dose. The intended efficacy was achieved in 79.4% of 78 cases of 124 doses given (62.9%). Fourteen (41%) patients who received doses experienced adverse events, with sedation and hypotension being the most common. Conclusions. Olanzapine IM appears effective in hospitalized older adults but is associated with potential adverse events. Structured monitoring and documentation are needed to ensure safe use in this high-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Duong
- North York General Hospital, 4001 Leslie Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M2K 1E1
- Herzl CRIU Walk-In Centre, Jewish General Hospital, 5858 Côte-des-Neiges, Suite 500, Montreal, QC, Canada H3S 1Z1
| | - Kam-Tong Yeung
- North York General Hospital, 4001 Leslie Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M2K 1E1
| | - Feng Chang
- North York General Hospital, 4001 Leslie Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M2K 1E1
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, Canada N2L 3G1
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Parsons C, McCorry N, Murphy K, Byrne S, O'Sullivan D, O'Mahony D, Passmore P, Patterson S, Hughes C. Assessment of factors that influence physician decision making regarding medication use in patients with dementia at the end of life. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2014; 29:281-90. [PMID: 23836439 DOI: 10.1002/gps.4006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Accepted: 06/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the extent to which patient-related factors and physicians' country of practice (Northern Ireland [NI] and the Republic of Ireland [RoI]) influenced decision making regarding medication use in patients with end-stage dementia. METHODS The study utilised a factorial survey design comprising four vignettes to evaluate initiating/withholding or continuing/discontinuing specific medications in patients with dementia nearing death. Questionnaires and vignettes were mailed to all hospital physicians in geriatric medicine and to all general practitioners (GPs) in NI (November 2010) and RoI (December 2010), with a second copy provided 3 weeks after the first mailing. Logistic regression models were constructed to examine the impact of patient-related factors and physicians' country of practice on decision making. Significance was set a priori at p ≤ 0.05. Free text responses to open questions were analysed qualitatively using content analysis. RESULTS The response rate was 20.6% (N = 662) [21.1% (N = 245) for GPs and 52.1% (N = 38) for hospital physicians in NI, 18.3% (N = 348) for GPs and 36.0% (N = 31) for hospital physicians in RoI]. There was considerable variability in decision making about initiating/withholding antibiotics and continuing/discontinuing the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor and memantine hydrochloride, and less variability in decision making regarding statins and antipsychotics. Patient place of residence and physician's country of practice had the strongest and most consistent effects on decision making although effect sizes were small. CONCLUSIONS Further research is required into other factors that may impact upon physicians' prescribing decisions for these vulnerable patients and to clarify how the factors examined in this study influence prescribing decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Parsons
- Clinical & Practice Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, UK
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Merims D, Shemesh DG, Nahari H, Arharov O, Ari GB, Israel JB. Differences in diagnosis, follow-up and treatment of patients with dementia living in the peripheral areas compared with the central areas of Israel. DEMENTIA 2013; 14:483-93. [PMID: 24339111 DOI: 10.1177/1471301213500500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We compared data regarding diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients with dementia in the central and the peripheral areas of Israel. Data were collected from the medical records of 164 patients with advanced dementia, all residents of dementia special care units - 97 patients from a central nursing home and 67 patients from the peripheral areas. The data collected related to the period prior to hospitalization and included: demographic data, imaging tests, follow-up by a memory clinic and drug treatment prior to admission. Mini Mental State Examination on admission was also recorded. Patients in the peripheral areas were hospitalized while having better cognitive function, as demonstrated by the Mini Mental State Examination (p < 0.05). More patients in the central areas versus the peripheral areas were aided by an in-house worker prior to admission (p < 0.001). More patients with dementia in the central areas were followed up by a memory clinic (p < 0.001) and underwent brain imaging (p < 0.01) compared with patients with dementia living in the peripheral areas. Although not significant, patients from the central areas were more commonly treated with atypical neuroleptics for behavioral problems (p = 0.05). On the basis of the current data, we suggest that there are differences in the diagnosis, follow-up and drug treatment among patients with dementia living in the central areas versus those living in the peripheral ones. Patients in the peripheral areas are hospitalized while their cognitive abilities are relatively better than those of the patients in central areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Merims
- Shoham Geriatric Medical Center, Pardes Hanna, Israel
| | | | - H Nahari
- Shoham Geriatric Medical Center, Pardes Hanna, Israel
| | - O Arharov
- Beit Hashemesh Nursing Home, Hod HaSharon, Israel
| | - G Ben Ari
- The Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel
| | - J Ben Israel
- Shoham Geriatric Medical Center, Pardes Hanna, Israel
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Janzen S, Zecevic AA, Kloseck M, Orange JB. Managing agitation using nonpharmacological interventions for seniors with dementia. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2013; 28:524-32. [PMID: 23813608 PMCID: PMC10852721 DOI: 10.1177/1533317513494444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2024]
Abstract
Approximately 36 million people have Alzheimer's disease worldwide, and many experience behavioral issues such as agitation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of long-term care (LTC) staff regarding the current use of nonpharmacological interventions (NPIs) for reducing agitation in seniors with dementia and to identify facilitators and barriers that guide NPI implementation. Qualitative methods were used to gather data from interviews and focus groups. A total of 44 staff from 5 LTC facilities participated. Findings showed that both medications and NPIs are used for the management of agitation. The use of NPIs was facilitated by consistency in staffing, and the ability of all the staff members to implement them. Common barriers to NPI use included the perceived lack of time, low staff-to-resident ratios, and the unpredictable and short-lasting effectiveness of NPIs. This study offers insight into perceived factors that influence implementation of NPIs and the perceived effectiveness of NPIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Janzen
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aleksandra A. Zecevic
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marita Kloseck
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - J. B. Orange
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Communications Sciences and Disorders, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
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Herrmann N, Lanctôt KL, Hogan DB. Pharmacological recommendations for the symptomatic treatment of dementia: the Canadian Consensus Conference on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Dementia 2012. Alzheimers Res Ther 2013; 5:S5. [PMID: 24565367 PMCID: PMC3980908 DOI: 10.1186/alzrt201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While there have been no new medications approved for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) or other dementias in Canada since 2004, the Canadian Consensus Conference on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Dementia (CCCDTD) reviewed and updated the clinical practice guidelines on the pharmacological management of dementia that were published previously. METHODS This review focused on the literature for the pharmacological treatment of dementia based on studies published since the third CCCDTD in 2006. A literature search of English-language medical databases was preformed for studies pertaining to the pharmacological treatment of AD and other dementias that examined the management of cognitive and functional impairment, as well as neuropsychiatric symptoms. All previous recommendations were reviewed, and only those that required updating based on new published studies were revised. Several new recommendations were also added. Recommendations were rated for quality of evidence and were approved by consensus. RESULTS There were 15 revised or new recommendations approved by consensus. The revised recommendations included acknowledging that cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) possess a class effect and any of the agents can be used for AD across the spectrum of severity and with co-existing cerebrovascular disease. There was insufficient evidence to recommend for or against the use of ChEIs in combination with memantine for the primary indication of treating neuropsychiatric symptoms, or for the treatment of vascular dementia. Recommendations for the discontinuation of cognitive enhancers were revised and clarified, as well as the risks associated with discontinuing these drugs. ChEIs were recommended as a treatment option for dementia with Parkinson's disease. Risks associated with use of antipsychotics for neuropsychiatric symptoms were strengthened, and guidelines regarding the use of antidepressants for affective disturbances in dementia were weakened, and are now considered an option but not a firm recommendation. Valproate was recommended not to be used, and there was insufficient evidence to recommend for or against the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or trazodone for the treatment of agitation and aggression. CONCLUSION In spite of the lack of new therapeutic agents for the treatment of dementia, recent studies have helped to clarify and strengthen recommendations to optimize the pharmacological management of these illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Herrmann
- Department of Psychiatry and the Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Suite FG08, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Suite FG08, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - Krista L Lanctôt
- Department of Psychiatry and the Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Suite FG08, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Suite FG08, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M4N 3M5, Canada
| | - David B Hogan
- Department of Medicine and The Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, HSC-3330 Hospital Dr. NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
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Drye LT, Scherer RW, Lanctôt KL, Rosenberg PB, Herrmann N, Bachman D, Mintzer JE. Designing a trial to evaluate potential treatments for apathy in dementia: the apathy in dementia methylphenidate trial (ADMET). Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2013; 21:549-59. [PMID: 23567407 PMCID: PMC3402588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2012.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2011] [Revised: 11/03/2011] [Accepted: 11/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on efficacious treatments for apathy in Alzheimer disease has been hindered by a lack of consensus diagnosis, difficulties in measurement, and studies with small sample sizes. METHODS In designing the Apathy in Dementia Methylphenidate Trial (ADMET), a trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of methylphenidate for the treatment of apathy in Alzheimer disease, we encountered the following issues: defining and measuring apathy, distinguishing apathy and depression, determining an appropriate test treatment, selecting relevant secondary outcomes, recruiting participants, and deciding on a suitable method for treatment unmasking. ADMET is a 6-week randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled multicenter clinical trial with two parallel treatment groups assigned in a 1:1 ratio with randomization stratified by clinical center. The recruitment goal is 60 randomized participants over 2 years. The primary outcomes are change in apathy severity as measured by the Apathy Evaluation Scale and the Alzheimer Disease Cooperative Study-Clinical Global Impression of Change. CONCLUSION The design decisions made for ADMET are important elements to be considered in trials assessing the safety and efficacy of medications for clinically significant apathy in Alzheimer disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea T. Drye
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health,Corresponding author: 615 North Wolfe Street, W5010, Baltimore, MD 21205, Phone (443) 287-3170, Fax (443) 287-5797,
| | | | | | - Paul B. Rosenberg
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center
| | | | - David Bachman
- Medical University of South Carolina and Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
| | - Jacobo E. Mintzer
- Medical University of South Carolina and Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
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Seitz DP, Gill SS, Herrmann N, Brisbin S, Rapoport MJ, Rines J, Wilson K, Le Clair K, Conn DK. Pharmacological treatments for neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia in long-term care: a systematic review. Int Psychogeriatr 2013; 25:185-203. [PMID: 23083438 PMCID: PMC3544545 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610212001627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2012] [Revised: 05/10/2012] [Accepted: 08/30/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medications are frequently prescribed for neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) associated with dementia, although information on the efficacy and safety of medications for NPS specifically in long-term care (LTC) settings is limited. The objective of this study was to provide a current review of the efficacy and safety of pharmacological treatments for NPS in LTC. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials comparing medications with either placebo or other interventions in LTC. Study quality was described using the Cochrane collaboration risk of bias tool. The efficacy of medications was evaluated using NPS symptom rating scales. Safety was evaluated through rates of trial withdrawals, trial withdrawals due to adverse events, and mortality. RESULTS A total of 29 studies met inclusion criteria. The most common medications evaluated in studies were atypical antipsychotics (N = 15), typical antipsychotics (N = 7), anticonvulsants (N = 4), and cholinesterase inhibitors (N = 3). Statistically significant improvements in NPS were noted in some studies evaluating risperidone, olanzapine, and single studies of aripiprazole, carbamazepine, estrogen, cyproterone, propranolol, and prazosin. Study quality was difficult to rate in many cases due to incomplete reporting of details. Some studies reported higher rates of trial withdrawals, adverse events, and mortality associated with medications. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that there is limited evidence to support the use of some atypical antipsychotics and other medications for NPS in LTC populations. However, the generally modest efficacy and risks of adverse events highlight the need for the development of safe and effective pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dallas P Seitz
- Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
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Gonski PN, Moon I. Outcomes of a behavioral unit in an acute aged care service. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2012; 55:60-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2011.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2011] [Revised: 06/12/2011] [Accepted: 06/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical guidelines have the potential to assist in the management of aggression in dementia. This study aims to develop a conceptual framework for the construction of individualized guidelines for this group. METHODS A concept map of the topic "How to manage aggression in dementia" was developed by reviewing research papers, clinical guidelines, and gray literature. Titles and abstracts of papers that met search criteria were manually scanned in an iterative process for the extraction of key ideas and terminology commonly used to describe the field. Essential ideas and concepts were recorded on a concept map and hierarchically arranged. The concept map was converted into an interactive PDF document for easy distribution and sharing. RESULTS Ten key concepts were found to be important when managing aggression in dementia clustered along three major dimensions: Patient, Disorder and Treatment. The dimension Patient was defined by the "Patient's individual characteristics," the "Personal life story," and the "Patient's environment." Disorder was defined by the "Presentation of symptoms" and "Theory of causation." Treatment was defined by "Goals and expectations," "Non-pharmacological interventions," "Pharmacological interventions," "Ethics and Restraint Use," and "Emergency treatment." Concepts relating to clinical guidelines themselves were also included in the interactive map, including "Support from evidence-based medicine," "Regular updates," "Disclosures," and "Usability." CONCLUSION Managing aggression in dementia requires consideration of a wide range of factors relating to the patient, the dementia and behavioral disturbance, and possible treatment options. An interactive and hierarchical concept map provides a framework to develop individualized clinical guidelines.
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Bédard A, Landreville P, Voyer P, Verreault R, Vézina J. Reducing verbal agitation in people with dementia: evaluation of an intervention based on the satisfaction of basic needs. Aging Ment Health 2011; 15:855-65. [PMID: 21562991 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2011.569480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Positive results have been reported with psychosocial interventions used to reduce verbal agitation (VA) in people with dementia, but there is no clear information regarding the proportion of persons who demonstrate significant behavioural improvement with such treatments. The main objectives of this pilot study are (a) to identify the proportion of persons with dementia who demonstrate significant behavioural improvement with a need-based intervention to reduce VA and (b) to further evaluate the effectiveness of this type of intervention. METHOD A single-group repeated measures design was used (N = 26). An individualized multicomponent intervention addressing needs for comfort, social interaction and sensory stimulation was applied by a therapist during 30 min sessions during the time of day when VA was most severe. The frequency and duration of VA were measured through computer-assisted direct observation several times before, during and after the intervention. RESULTS A statistically significant reduction of the duration of VA during the intervention phase relative to other phases of the protocol was found. This effect was limited to the period during which the treatment is being applied. Half of the participants (54%) demonstrated considerable behavioural improvement during the intervention (50% reduction of symptoms) and those whose functioning is best preserved showed the best response to the intervention. CONCLUSION This need-based intervention appears promising for improving the behaviour of a considerable proportion of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annick Bédard
- Centre de recherche FRSQ du CHA universitaire de Québec, Canada.
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Parsons C, Briesacher BA, Givens JL, Chen Y, Tjia J. Cholinesterase inhibitor and memantine use in newly admitted nursing home residents with dementia. J Am Geriatr Soc 2011; 59:1253-9. [PMID: 21668913 DOI: 10.1111/j.1532-5415.2011.03478.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To quantify the use of cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) and memantine in nursing home (NH) residents with dementia upon NH admission and 3 months later and to examine factors associated with reduction in therapy. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Nationwide sample of U.S. NHs. PARTICIPANTS Three thousand five hundred six NH residents with dementia newly admitted in 2006. MEASUREMENTS Data from pharmacy dispensing records were used to determine ChEI and memantine medication use upon NH admission and at 3-month follow-up. The Minimum Data Set was used to determine resident- and facility-level characteristics. Severity of dementia was defined using the Cognitive Performance Scale (CPS). RESULTS Overall, 40.1% (n=1,407) of newly admitted NH residents with dementia received ChEIs and memantine on NH admission. Use of ChEIs and memantine on admission was significantly greater in residents with mild to moderately severe dementia (41.2%) than in those with advanced dementia (33.3%, P=.001). After 3 months, ChEI and memantine use decreased by about half in both groups (48.6% with mild to moderately severe dementia vs 57.0% with advanced dementia, P<.05). NH residents with advanced dementia were significantly more likely reduce their use of ChEIs and memantine than those with mild to moderately severe dementia (odds ratio=1.44, 95% confidence interval=1.03-2.01, P=.04). CONCLUSION Many NH residents with advanced dementia receive ChEIs and memantine upon NH admission, and approximately half of these decrease their medication use over the ensuing months. Further study is required to optimize use of ChEIs and memantine in NH populations and to determine the effects of withdrawing therapy on resident outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Parsons
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) are being used for increasingly long periods of time, even in patients with severe Alzheimer's disease. Because there is little data to help clinicians to decide on when it is safe and appropriate to discontinue ChEIs after long-term use, practices may vary widely. METHODS An internet-based survey was undertaken of Canadian dementia experts (geriatric psychiatrists, neurologists, geriatricians) involved in clinical trial research. Recommendations for ChEI discontinuation were determined based on responses to questions dealing with patient/caregiver preference, administrative considerations, effectiveness, and adverse events. RESULTS There was reasonable consensus that ChEIs should be discontinued based on patient and caregiver preference, and in the presence of severe bothersome adverse events. There was much less consensus on issues related to effectiveness - in particular, what constitutes greater than expected decline. There was a general reluctance to rely on any single measure of cognition, function and/or behavior, and in particular, the MMSE was seen as unhelpful for making decisions about discontinuation. CONCLUSION Recommendations for discontinuing ChEIs after long-term use from a survey of dementia experts are presented. Ideally, clinical practice guidelines based on controlled discontinuation trials are needed.
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Parsons C, Hughes C, McGuinness B, Passmore P. Withdrawal or continuation of cholinesterase inhibitors and/or memantine in patients with dementia. THE COCHRANE DATABASE OF SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carole Parsons
- Queen's University Belfast; School of Pharmacy; 97 Lisburn Road Belfast UK BT9 7BL
| | - Carmel Hughes
- Queen's University Belfast; School of Pharmacy; 97 Lisburn Road Belfast UK BT9 7BL
| | - Bernadette McGuinness
- National University of Ireland; School of Medicine; Room 215, Block S University Road Galway Ireland
| | - Peter Passmore
- Queen's University Belfast; Department of Geriatric Medicine; Whitla Medical Building 97 Lisburn Road Belfast UK BT9 5HP
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Ferreira M, Valenti VE, Cisternas JR, Ferreira C, Meneghini A, Filho CF, Breda JR, Correa JA, de Mello Monteiro CB, Junior HM, Murad N, de Abreu LC. Memantine effects on liver and adrenal gland of rats exposed to cold stress. Int Arch Med 2011; 4:5. [PMID: 21255456 PMCID: PMC3033327 DOI: 10.1186/1755-7682-4-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2010] [Accepted: 01/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Memantine attenuates heart stress due cold stress, however, no study focused its effects on liver and adrenal gland. We evaluated its effects on lipid depletion in adrenal gland and glycogen depletion in liver of rats exposed to cold stress. Methods Male rats divided into 4 groups: 1)Control (CON); 2)Memantine (MEM); 3)Induced cold stress (IH) and; 4)Induced cold stress memantine (IHF). Memantine were administrated by gavage (20 mg/kg/day) during eight days. Cold stress were performed during 4 hours once at - 8°C. Lipid and glycogen depletion were presented as its intensity levels. Results Rats exposed to cold stress presented the highest glycogen (p < 0.001) and lipid depletion (p < 0.001) in liver and adrenal gland, respectively. We noted that memantine significantly reduced lipid depletion in adrenal gland and glycogen depletion in liver. Conclusion Memantine prevented glycogen depletion in liver and lipid depletion in adrenal gland of rats under a cold stress condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Ferreira
- Laboratório de Escrita Científica, Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, SP, Brasil.
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Parsons C, Hughes CM, Passmore AP, Lapane KL. Withholding, discontinuing and withdrawing medications in dementia patients at the end of life: a neglected problem in the disadvantaged dying? Drugs Aging 2010; 27:435-49. [PMID: 20524704 DOI: 10.2165/11536760-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have seen a growing recognition that dementia is a terminal illness and that patients with advanced dementia nearing the end of life do not currently receive adequate palliative care. However, research into palliative care for these patients has thus far been limited. Furthermore, there has been little discussion in the literature regarding medication use in patients with advanced dementia who are nearing the end of life, and discontinuation of medication has not been well studied despite its potential to reduce the burden on the patient and to improve quality of life. There is limited, and sometimes contradictory, evidence available in the literature to guide evidence-based discontinuation of drugs such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, antipsychotic agents, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins), antibacterials, antihypertensives, antihyperglycaemic drugs and anticoagulants. Furthermore, end-of-life care of patients with advanced dementia may be complicated by difficulties in accurately estimating life expectancy, ethical considerations regarding withholding or withdrawing treatment, and the wishes of the patient and/or their family. Significant research must be undertaken in the area of medication discontinuation in patients with advanced dementia nearing the end of life to determine how physicians currently decide whether medications should be discontinued, and also to develop the evidence base and provide guidance on systematic medication discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Parsons
- Clinical and Practice Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland.
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Gauthier S, Juby A, Dalziel W, Réhel B, Schecter R. Effects of rivastigmine on common symptomatology of Alzheimer's disease (EXPLORE). Curr Med Res Opin 2010; 26:1149-60. [PMID: 20230208 DOI: 10.1185/03007991003688888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate, in a real-world clinical setting, the efficacy of rivastigmine in the management of six symptoms commonly associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). METHODS This was a naturalistic, prospective, open-label, multi-centre, post-marketing, observational study. Data were collected by the participating study physicians at their practices across Canada. Subjects had a clinical diagnosis of mild-to-moderate AD and were prescribed rivastigmine by their treating physician. Efficacy was primarily evaluated by a physician-assessed, abbreviated Clinical Global Impression of Change (CGI-C) scale, focusing on six symptoms: attention, apathy, anxiety, agitation, irritability and sleep disturbance. Changes were assessed at months 3, 6 and 12. Several other patient-, physician- and caregiver-related assessments were also included. RESULTS A total of 4460 patients were recruited by 353 study physicians; 3800 were deemed evaluable, having taken at least one dose of rivastigmine and with at least one post-baseline assessment. At baseline, attention problems were present in 86.0% of evaluable patients, anxiety in 77.3%, apathy in 68.3%, irritability in 64.0%, agitation in 54.6% and sleep disturbance in 54.5%. At both month 6 and month 12, for each symptom, the percentage of patients experiencing an improvement was considerably larger than the percentage of patients who experienced symptom worsening. Among evaluable patients, the proportions improving vs. deteriorating at month 6 were 46.4 vs. 8.8% for attention; 42.8 vs. 7.2% for apathy; 41.1 vs. 9.4% for anxiety; 33.8 vs. 7.7% for agitation; 35.1 vs. 10.1% for irritability; and 30.8 vs. 5.4% for sleep disturbance. LIMITATIONS Open-label studies have an inherent potential for bias by both the caregiver and the physician. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that a considerable proportion of rivastigmine-treated patients experience improvements on each of the six symptoms studied. These findings add further support to previous randomised, clinical studies showing benefit of rivastigmine in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Gauthier
- McGill Centre for Studies of Aging, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex progressive brain degenerative disorder that has effects on multiple cerebral systems. In addition to cognitive and functional decline, diverse behavioral changes manifest with increasing severity over time, presenting significant management challenges for caregivers and health care professionals. Almost all patients with AD are affected by neuropsychiatric symptoms at some point during their illness; in some cases, symptoms occur prior to diagnosis of the dementia syndrome. Further, behavioral factors have been identified, which may have their origins in particular neurobiological processes, and respond to particular management strategies. Improved clarification of causes, triggers, and presentation of neuropsychiatric symptoms will guide both research and clinical decision-making. Measurement of neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD is most commonly by means of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory; its utility and future development are discussed, as are the limitations and difficulties encountered when quantifying behavioral responses in clinical trials. Evidence from clinical trials of both non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments, and from neurobiological studies, provides a range of management options that can be tailored to individual needs. We suggest that non-pharmacological interventions (including psychosocial/psychological counseling, interpersonal management and environmental management) should be attempted first, followed by the least harmful medication for the shortest time possible. Pharmacological treatment options, such as antipsychotics, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, need careful consideration of the benefits and limitations of each drug class.
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Landreville P, Leblanc V. Older adult's acceptability ratings of treatments for verbal agitation in persons with dementia. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2010; 25:134-41. [PMID: 19592706 PMCID: PMC10845305 DOI: 10.1177/1533317509337936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/RATIONALE Various interventions are available to manage verbal agitation (VA), but our understanding regarding their acceptability is limited. The purpose of this study is to compare the acceptability of 3 interventions from the point of view of elderly individuals: direct interaction (DI), differential reinforcement of incompatible behaviors (DRI), and risperidone (RIS). METHODS Participants (N = 69) evaluated the acceptability of each treatment according to the description of a fictional person who demonstrated aggressive or nonaggressive VA. RESULTS There is an interaction between the type of intervention and the severity of VA. For nonaggressive VA, DI is the most acceptable intervention followed by DRI and RIS. For aggressive VA, DI and DRI are more acceptable than RIS, but there is not a significant difference between them. The acceptability of each intervention is not associated with the participants' characteristics. CONCLUSION The results of this study highlight the acceptability of DI for managing VA.
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Nourhashémi F, Olde Rikkert MG, Burns A, Winblad B, Frisoni GB, Fitten J, Vellas B. Follow-up for Alzheimer patients: European Alzheimer Disease Consortium position paper. J Nutr Health Aging 2010; 14:121-30. [PMID: 20126960 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-010-0023-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Alzheimer disease (AD) is one of the leading causes of dependence in the elderly. Providing care for patients with AD is complex and the type of care required depends on the stage of the disease and varies over time. The aim of this article is to discuss available care strategies once the AD diagnosis has been made and to propose a follow-up plan as standard of care at a European level. METHODS The proposals developed in this article stem from the collaborative work of a panel of multidisciplinary experts involved in the care of AD patients (European Alzheimer Disease Consortium) based on the results of published scientific studies and on their experience from clinical practice. CONCLUSION Suggestions for follow-up frequency and easily administered and scored assessment tools are provided, thereby increasing efficiency and quality of care for patients with Alzheimer disease.
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Vellas B, Reynish E, Robert P. Commentary on "The Third Canadian Consensus Conference on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Dementia, 2006.". Alzheimers Dement 2009; 3:444-5. [PMID: 19595966 DOI: 10.1016/j.jalz.2007.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A comprehensive and useful initiative has been performed by our Canadian colleagues. The subjects presented are under active discussion in many countries, with the goal of direct applications in daily clinical practice. The review provided by this special issue of the Journal will therefore be very useful for all. In this commentary we will not discuss all papers, but will underline only some important points concerning mild cognitive impairment and the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Vellas
- Alzheimer's Disease Research and Clinical Center, INSERM U 558, Gerontopole, Toulouse, France.
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Seitz DP, Gruneir A, Conn DK, Rochon PA. Cholinesterase Inhibitor Use in U.S. Nursing Homes: Results from the National Nursing Home Survey. J Am Geriatr Soc 2009; 57:2269-74. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1532-5415.2009.02552.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Forbes D, Culum I, Lischka AR, Morgan DG, Peacock S, Forbes J, Forbes S. Light therapy for managing cognitive, sleep, functional, behavioural, or psychiatric disturbances in dementia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2009:CD003946. [PMID: 19821317 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003946.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rest-activity and sleep-wake cycles are controlled by the endogenous circadian rhythm generated by the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) of the hypothalamus. Degenerative changes in the SCN appear to be a biological basis for circadian disturbances in people with dementia, and might be reversed by stimulation of the SCN by light. OBJECTIVES The review assesses the evidence of effectiveness of light therapy in managing cognitive, sleep, functional, behavioural, or psychiatric disturbances associated with dementia. SEARCH STRATEGY The Specialized Register of the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group (CDCIG), The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL and LILACS were searched on 4 March 2008 using the terms: "bright light*", "light box*", "light visor*", "dawn-dusk*", phototherapy, "photo therapy", "light therapy" "light treatment", light* . The CDCIG Specialized Register contains records from all major health care databases (The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, LILACS) as well as from many trials databases and grey literature sources. SELECTION CRITERIA All relevant, randomized clinical trials in which light therapy, at any intensity and duration, was compared with a control group for the effect on managing cognition, sleep, function, behavioural, or psychiatric disturbances (as well as changes in institutionalization rates or cost of care) in people with dementia of any type and degree of severity. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Three reviewers independently assessed the retrieved articles for relevance and methodological quality, and extracted data from the selected studies. Statistically significant differences in outcomes between the treatment and control groups at end of treatment and follow-up were examined. Each study was summarized using a measure of effect (e.g. mean difference). MAIN RESULTS Eight trials met the inclusion criteria. However, three of the studies could not be included in the analyses because of inappropriate reported study analyses or inability to retrieve the required data from the investigators. This review revealed no adequate evidence of the effectiveness of light therapy in managing cognition, sleep, function, behaviour, or psychiatric disturbances associated with dementia. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is insufficient evidence to assess the value of light therapy for people with dementia. Most of the available studies are not of high methodological quality and further research is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy Forbes
- H33 Health Sciences Addition, Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C1
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Herrmann N, Binder C, Dalziel W, Smyth S, Camacho F. Persistence with cholinesterase inhibitor therapy for dementia: an observational administrative health database study. Drugs Aging 2009; 26:403-7. [PMID: 19552492 DOI: 10.2165/00002512-200926050-00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if choice of drug and ease of administration affect persistence of therapy with cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) for treatment of dementia. METHODS An observational administrative health database study was conducted in 5622 patients aged >or=65 years who received a new prescription for donepezil (DON), rivastigmine (RIV) or galantamine (GAL) from February to May 2006. Patients were followed for 1 year from initiation of therapy to determine percentage persistence and days of therapy. Once-daily galantamine extended release (GAL-ER) was compared with twice-daily galantamine immediate release (GAL-IR) to determine if ease of administration affected persistence. Previous treatment with ChEIs was also documented. RESULTS One-year persistence rates were significantly different among the ChEIs: GAL-ER 54% (95% CI 51, 57), DON 46% (95% CI 43, 49) and RIV 40% (95% CI 37, 43). Average days of therapy were greater for GAL-ER (293) than for RIV (272), but there were no differences between DON (287) and GAL-ER or DON and RIV. One-year persistence was significantly greater for GAL-ER 54% (95% CI 48, 59) than for GAL-IR 44% (95% CI 39, 50), although there was no significant difference in days of therapy (293 vs 286, respectively). More patients currently treated with RIV (40.5%) or GAL-ER (32.3%) had received previous treatment with a different ChEI than with DON (21.9%). CONCLUSION Among possible factors affecting persistence of ChEI therapy for dementia, choice of drug, ease of administration and previous treatment appear to be important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Herrmann
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Culum I, Forbes D. Posatirelin (l-pyro-2-aminoadipyl-l-leucyl-l-prolinamide) treatment for persons with dementia. Hippokratia 2008. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Culum
- University of Western Ontario; Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Elborn College; London Ontario Canada N6G 1H1
| | - Dorothy Forbes
- University of Western Ontario; H33 Health Sciences Addition, School of Nursing; London Ontario Canada N6A 5C1
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Valiyeva E, Herrmann N, Rochon PA, Gill SS, Anderson GM. Effect of regulatory warnings on antipsychotic prescription rates among elderly patients with dementia: a population-based time-series analysis. CMAJ 2008; 179:438-46. [PMID: 18725616 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.071540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Three warnings of serious adverse events associated with the use of atypical antipsychotic drugs among elderly patients with dementia were sent to health care professionals in Canada. We assessed the impact of these warnings on prescription rates of antipsychotic drugs in this patient population. METHODS We used prescription drug claims data from Ontario to calculate prescription rates of atypical and conventional antipsychotic drugs among elderly patients with dementia from May 1, 2000, to Feb. 28, 2007. We performed a time-series analysis to estimate the effect of each warning on rates of antipsychotic drug use. RESULTS Before the first warning, growth in the use of atypical antipsychotics was responsible for an increasing rate of overall antipsychotic use. Each warning was associated with a small relative decrease in the predicted growth in the use of atypical antipsychotic drugs: a 5.0% decrease after the first warning, 4.9% after the second and 3.2% after the third (each p < 0.05). The overall prescription rate of antipsychotic drugs among patients with dementia increased by 20%, from 1512 per 100 000 elderly patients in September 2002, the month before the first warning, to 1813 per 100 000 in February 2007, 20 months after the last warning. INTERPRETATION Although the warnings slowed the growth in the use of atypical antipsychotic drugs among patients with dementia, they did not reduce the overall prescription rate of these potentially dangerous drugs. More effective interventions are necessary to improve postmarket drug safety in vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elmira Valiyeva
- The Department of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Gauthier
- McGill Center for Studies in AgingDouglas Institute for Mental HealthMontrealQuebecCanada
| | - Judes Poirier
- McGill Center for Studies in AgingDouglas Institute for Mental HealthMontrealQuebecCanada
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Aisen PS. Commentary on “The Third Canadian Consensus Conference on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Dementia, 2006.”—An appraisal. Alzheimers Dement 2007; 3:446-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jalz.2007.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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