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Bedward A, Kaur J, Seedat S, Donohue H, Kow CS, Rasheed MK, Javed A, Hasan SS. Pharmacological interventions to improve sleep in people with Alzheimer's disease: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:527-539. [PMID: 38597219 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2341004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving pharmacological interventions for improving sleep in people with Alzheimer's disease (AD). METHODS A systematic literature search in eight databases from January 2000 to July 2023 focusing on RCTs that compared a pharmacological intervention with a placebo for enhancing sleep in people with AD. The authors registered the study protocol at Prospero, followed the PRISMA guidelines, and produced the pooled estimates using random-effect or IVhet models. RESULTS Eight different interventions and 29 different sleep outcomes were examined in 14 RCTs included in this review. Eszopiclone positively affected sleep efficiency, as did orexin antagonists. However, there was no difference when melatonin was used. The interventions demonstrated low discontinuation rates and a few adverse drug reactions. CONCLUSION Although melatonin was the most investigated intervention, the evidence for its efficacy is inconclusive. On the other hand, trazodone and orexin receptor antagonists showed promising results; however, more RCTs are needed for definite answers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Bedward
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Jasmine Kaur
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Sadiyah Seedat
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Holly Donohue
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Chia Siang Kow
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Kamran Rasheed
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amaan Javed
- University College of Medical Sciences, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Syed Shahzad Hasan
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, UK
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Banerjee S, Farina N, Henderson C, High J, Stirling S, Shepstone L, Fountain J, Ballard C, Bentham P, Burns A, Fox C, Francis P, Howard R, Knapp M, Leroi I, Livingston G, Nilforooshan R, Nurock S, O'Brien J, Price A, Thomas AJ, Swart AM, Telling T, Tabet N. A pragmatic, multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial to assess the safety, clinical and cost-effectiveness of mirtazapine and carbamazepine in people with Alzheimer's disease and agitated behaviours: the HTA-SYMBAD trial. Health Technol Assess 2023; 27:1-108. [PMID: 37929672 PMCID: PMC10641860 DOI: 10.3310/vpdt7105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Agitation is common and impacts negatively on people with dementia and carers. Non-drug patient-centred care is first-line treatment, but we need other treatment when this fails. Current evidence is sparse on safer and effective alternatives to antipsychotics. Objectives To assess clinical and cost-effectiveness and safety of mirtazapine and carbamazepine in treating agitation in dementia. Design Pragmatic, phase III, multicentre, double-blind, superiority, randomised, placebo-controlled trial of the clinical effectiveness of mirtazapine over 12 weeks (carbamazepine arm discontinued). Setting Twenty-six UK secondary care centres. Participants Eligibility: probable or possible Alzheimer's disease, agitation unresponsive to non-drug treatment, Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory score ≥ 45. Interventions Mirtazapine (target 45 mg), carbamazepine (target 300 mg) and placebo. Outcome measures Primary: Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory score 12 weeks post randomisation. Main economic outcome evaluation: incremental cost per six-point difference in Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory score at 12 weeks, from health and social care system perspective. Data from participants and informants at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks. Long-term follow-up Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory data collected by telephone from informants at 6 and 12 months. Randomisation and blinding Participants allocated 1 : 1 : 1 ratio (to discontinuation of the carbamazepine arm, 1 : 1 thereafter) to receive placebo or carbamazepine or mirtazapine, with treatment as usual. Random allocation was block stratified by centre and residence type with random block lengths of three or six (after discontinuation of carbamazepine, two or four). Double-blind, with drug and placebo identically encapsulated. Referring clinicians, participants, trial management team and research workers who did assessments were masked to group allocation. Results Two hundred and forty-four participants recruited and randomised (102 mirtazapine, 102 placebo, 40 carbamazepine). The carbamazepine arm was discontinued due to slow overall recruitment; carbamazepine/placebo analyses are therefore statistically underpowered and not detailed in the abstract. Mean difference placebo-mirtazapine (-1.74, 95% confidence interval -7.17 to 3.69; p = 0.53). Harms: The number of controls with adverse events (65/102, 64%) was similar to the mirtazapine group (67/102, 66%). However, there were more deaths in the mirtazapine group (n = 7) by week 16 than in the control group (n = 1). Post hoc analysis suggests this was of marginal statistical significance (p = 0.065); this difference did not persist at 6- and 12-month assessments. At 12 weeks, the costs of unpaid care by the dyadic carer were significantly higher in the mirtazapine than placebo group [difference: £1120 (95% confidence interval £56 to £2184)]. In the cost-effectiveness analyses, mean raw and adjusted outcome scores and costs of the complete cases samples showed no differences between groups. Limitations Our study has four important potential limitations: (1) we dropped the proposed carbamazepine group; (2) the trial was not powered to investigate a mortality difference between the groups; (3) recruitment beyond February 2020, was constrained by the COVID-19 pandemic; and (4) generalisability is limited by recruitment of participants from old-age psychiatry services and care homes. Conclusions The data suggest mirtazapine is not clinically or cost-effective (compared to placebo) for agitation in dementia. There is little reason to recommend mirtazapine for people with dementia with agitation. Future work Effective and cost-effective management strategies for agitation in dementia are needed where non-pharmacological approaches are unsuccessful. Study registration This trial is registered as ISRCTN17411897/NCT03031184. Funding This project was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 27, No. 23. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sube Banerjee
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Nicolas Farina
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
- Centre for Dementia Studies, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton and Hove, UK
| | - Catherine Henderson
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Juliet High
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
| | - Susan Stirling
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
| | - Lee Shepstone
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
| | - Julia Fountain
- Coordinator for Service User and Carer Involvement in Research, Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton and Hove, UK
| | - Clive Ballard
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Peter Bentham
- Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alistair Burns
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Chris Fox
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
| | - Paul Francis
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Martin Knapp
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Iracema Leroi
- Department of Psychiatry, Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gill Livingston
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ramin Nilforooshan
- Research and Development, Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Leatherhead, UK
| | - Shirley Nurock
- Former Carer, Alzheimer's Society Research Network, London, UK
| | - John O'Brien
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge School of Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - Annabel Price
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alan J Thomas
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Ann Marie Swart
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk, UK
| | - Tanya Telling
- Joint Clinical Research Office, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Naji Tabet
- Centre for Dementia Studies, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton and Hove, UK
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T P, Katta B, Lulu S S, Sundararajan V. Gene expression analysis reveals GRIN1, SYT1, and SYN2 as significant therapeutic targets and drug repurposing reveals lorazepam and lorediplon as potent inhibitors to manage Alzheimer's disease. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023:1-22. [PMID: 37691428 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2256878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a slowly progressive neurodegenerative disease and a leading cause of dementia. We aim to identify key genes for the development of therapeutic targets and biomarkers for potential treatments for AD. Meta-analysis was performed on six microarray datasets and identified the differentially expressed genes between healthy and Alzheimer's disease samples. Thereafter, we filtered out the common genes which were present in at least four microarray datasets for downstream analysis. We have constructed a gene-gene network for the common genes and identified six hub genes. Furthermore, we investigated the regulatory mechanisms of these hub genes by analysing their interaction with miRNAs and transcription factors. The gene ontology analysis results highlighted the enriched terms significantly associated with hub genes. Through an extensive literature survey, we found that three of the hub genes including GRIN1, SYN2, and SYT1 were critically involved in disease development. To leverage existing drugs for potential repurposing, we predicted drug-gene interaction using the drug-gene interaction database, and performed molecular docking studies. The docking results revealed that the drug compounds had strong interactions and favorable binding with selected hub genes. Lorazepam exhibits a binding energy of -7.3 kcal/mol with GRIN1, Lorediplon exhibits binding energies of -7.7 kcal/mol and -6.3 kcal/mol with the SYT1, and SYN2 respectively. In addition, 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations were carried out for the top complexes and apo protein as well. Furthermore, the MM-PBSA free energy calculations also revealed that these complexes are stable and had favorable energies. According to our study, the identified hub gene could serve as a biomarker as well as a therapeutic target for AD, and the proposed repurposed drug molecules appear to have promising efficacy in treating the disease.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Premkumar T
- Integrative Multiomics Lab, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Bhavana Katta
- Integrative Multiomics Lab, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sajitha Lulu S
- Integrative Multiomics Lab, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vino Sundararajan
- Integrative Multiomics Lab, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Pless A, Ware D, Saggu S, Rehman H, Morgan J, Wang Q. Understanding neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease: challenges and advances in diagnosis and treatment. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1263771. [PMID: 37732300 PMCID: PMC10508352 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1263771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in Alzheimer's disease (AD) affect up to 97% of AD patients, with an estimated 80% of current AD patients experiencing these symptoms. Common AD-associated NPS include depression, anxiety, agitation, aggression, and apathy. The severity of NPS in AD is typically linked to the disease's progression and the extent of cognitive decline. Additionally, these symptoms are responsible for a significant increase in morbidity, mortality, caregiver burden, earlier nursing home placement, and greater healthcare expenditure. Despite their high prevalence and significant impact, there is a notable lack of clinical research on NPS in AD. In this article, we explore and analyze the prevalence, symptom manifestations, challenges in diagnosis, and treatment options of NPS associated with AD. Our literature review reveals that distinguishing and accurately diagnosing the NPS associated with AD remains a challenging task in clinical settings. It is often difficult to discern whether NPS are secondary to pathophysiological changes from AD or are comorbid psychiatric conditions. Furthermore, the availability of effective pharmaceutical interventions, as well as non-pharmacotherapies for NPS in AD, remains limited. By highlighting the advance and challenges in diagnosis and treatment of AD-associated NPS, we aspire to offer new insights into the complexity of identifying and treating these symptoms within the context of AD, and contribute to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of NPS in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Pless
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Destany Ware
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Shalini Saggu
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Hasibur Rehman
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - John Morgan
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, United States
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5
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Wang HJ, Kusumo RW, Kiss A, Tennen G, Marotta G, Viaje S, Lanctôt KL. Characterizing PRN Use of Psychotropic Medications for Acute Agitation in Canadian Long-Term Care Residents with Dementia Before and During COVID-19. J Alzheimers Dis Rep 2023; 7:575-587. [PMID: 37313488 PMCID: PMC10259051 DOI: 10.3233/adr-230009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Agitation is a disabling neuropsychiatric symptom of dementia. Pro re nata (PRN) injections of psychotropics can be administered for severe acute agitation, but little is known about the frequency of their actual use. Objective Characterize actual use of injectable PRN psychotropics for severe acute agitation in Canadian long-term care (LTC) residents with dementia and compare use before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Residents from two Canadian LTC facilities with orders for PRN haloperidol, olanzapine, or lorazepam between January 1, 2018- May 1, 2019 (i.e., pre-COVID-19) and January 1, 2020- May 1, 2021 (i.e., COVID-19) were identified. Electronic medical records were reviewed to document PRN injections of psychotropic medications and collect data on reason and demographic characteristics. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize frequency, dose, and indications of use, and multivariate regression models were used to compare use between time periods. Results Of the 250 residents, 45 of 103 (44%) people in the pre-COVID-19 period and 85 of 147 (58%) people in the COVID-19 period with standing orders for PRN psychotropics received ≥1 injections. Haloperidol was the most frequently used agent in both time periods (74% (155/209 injections) pre-COVID-19; 81% (323/398 injections) during COVID-19). Residents in the COVID-19 period were almost two times more likely to receive injections compared with those in the pre-COVID-19 period (odds ratio = 1.96; 95% CI = 1.15-3.34; p = 0.01). Conclusion Our results suggest that use of PRN injections increased in LTC during the pandemic and contribute to the mounting evidence that agitation worsened during that time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Jue Wang
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Raphael W. Kusumo
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alex Kiss
- Department of Research Design and Biostatistics, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gayla Tennen
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Giovanni Marotta
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Geriatrics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Villa Colombo Homes for the Aged Inc, North York, ON, Canada
| | - Shirley Viaje
- Villa Colombo Homes for the Aged Inc, North York, ON, Canada
| | - Krista L. Lanctôt
- Neuropsychopharmacology Research Group, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
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6
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Ting YY, Tien Y, Huang HP. Effects of aromatherapy on agitation in patients with dementia in the community: A quasi-experimental study. Geriatr Nurs 2023; 51:422-428. [PMID: 37148590 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are experienced by up to 90% of patients with dementia throughout dementia. This study aims to investigate the effect of aromatherapy on agitation in patients with dementia in the community. This prospective cohort study was conducted at a single day-care center for patients with dementia located in northern Taiwan with 2-week and 4-week follow-ups, comparing the severity of agitation between 3 measure points as the primary outcome. The aromatherapy was performed over 5 consecutive days for 4 weeks. Throughout the four-week observation were analyzed by GEE. Significant differences were found in the Chinese version of Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CCMAI) total agitation score (ß=-3.622, p=0.037) and physically non-aggressive behavior subscale (ß=-4.005, p=0.004) between aromatherapy group and control group. The severity of dementia-related agitation, especially the severity of physically non-aggressive behavior in demented patients, could be significantly reduced by a four-week intervention of aromatherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Yun Ting
- Graduate Institute of Gerontology and Health Care Management, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Yun Tien
- Deparement of Psychiatry, Taoyuan Psychiatric Center, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Ping Huang
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan City, Taiwan.
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7
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Ehrenberg AJ, Kelberman MA, Liu KY, Dahl MJ, Weinshenker D, Falgàs N, Dutt S, Mather M, Ludwig M, Betts MJ, Winer JR, Teipel S, Weigand AJ, Eschenko O, Hämmerer D, Leiman M, Counts SE, Shine JM, Robertson IH, Levey AI, Lancini E, Son G, Schneider C, Egroo MV, Liguori C, Wang Q, Vazey EM, Rodriguez-Porcel F, Haag L, Bondi MW, Vanneste S, Freeze WM, Yi YJ, Maldinov M, Gatchel J, Satpati A, Babiloni C, Kremen WS, Howard R, Jacobs HIL, Grinberg LT. Priorities for research on neuromodulatory subcortical systems in Alzheimer's disease: Position paper from the NSS PIA of ISTAART. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:2182-2196. [PMID: 36642985 PMCID: PMC10182252 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The neuromodulatory subcortical system (NSS) nuclei are critical hubs for survival, hedonic tone, and homeostasis. Tau-associated NSS degeneration occurs early in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis, long before the emergence of pathognomonic memory dysfunction and cortical lesions. Accumulating evidence supports the role of NSS dysfunction and degeneration in the behavioral and neuropsychiatric manifestations featured early in AD. Experimental studies even suggest that AD-associated NSS degeneration drives brain neuroinflammatory status and contributes to disease progression, including the exacerbation of cortical lesions. Given the important pathophysiologic and etiologic roles that involve the NSS in early AD stages, there is an urgent need to expand our understanding of the mechanisms underlying NSS vulnerability and more precisely detail the clinical progression of NSS changes in AD. Here, the NSS Professional Interest Area of the International Society to Advance Alzheimer's Research and Treatment highlights knowledge gaps about NSS within AD and provides recommendations for priorities specific to clinical research, biomarker development, modeling, and intervention. HIGHLIGHTS: Neuromodulatory nuclei degenerate in early Alzheimer's disease pathological stages. Alzheimer's pathophysiology is exacerbated by neuromodulatory nuclei degeneration. Neuromodulatory nuclei degeneration drives neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia. Biomarkers of neuromodulatory integrity would be value-creating for dementia care. Neuromodulatory nuclei present strategic prospects for disease-modifying therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Ehrenberg
- Memory and Aging Center, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Michael A Kelberman
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kathy Y Liu
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Martin J Dahl
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Center for Lifespan Psychology, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany
| | - David Weinshenker
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Neus Falgàs
- Alzheimer's Disease and Other Cognitive Disorders Unit, Neurology Service, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Global Brain Health Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Shubir Dutt
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mara Mather
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mareike Ludwig
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Matthew J Betts
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Joseph R Winer
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Stefan Teipel
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Rostock/Greifswald, Rostock, Germany
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Alexandra J Weigand
- San Diego State University/University of California San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Oxana Eschenko
- Department of Computational Neuroscience, Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Dorothea Hämmerer
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - Marina Leiman
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Scott E Counts
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
- Michigan Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - James M Shine
- Brain and Mind Center, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ian H Robertson
- Global Brain Health Institute, Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Allan I Levey
- Goizueta Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Goizueta Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elisa Lancini
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Gowoon Son
- Memory and Aging Center, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Christoph Schneider
- Gordon Center for Medical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maxime Van Egroo
- Gordon Center for Medical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Claudio Liguori
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Neurology Unit, University Hospital of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Qin Wang
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Agusta University, Agusta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elena M Vazey
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Lena Haag
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Mark W Bondi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Psychology Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sven Vanneste
- Global Brain Health Institute, Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity College Institute for Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Whitney M Freeze
- Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Department of Neuropsychology and Psychiatry, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Yeo-Jin Yi
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Mihovil Maldinov
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Jennifer Gatchel
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Abhijit Satpati
- Memory and Aging Center, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Claudio Babiloni
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "V. Erspamer,", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Hospital San Raffaele Cassino, Cassino, Italy
| | - William S Kremen
- Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Heidi I L Jacobs
- Gordon Center for Medical Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Lea T Grinberg
- Memory and Aging Center, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Global Brain Health Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil
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8
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Al-Kuraishy HM, Al-Gareeb AI, Alsayegh AA, Abusudah WF, Almohmadi NH, Eldahshan OA, Ahmed EA, Batiha GES. Insights on benzodiazepines' potential in Alzheimer's disease. Life Sci 2023; 320:121532. [PMID: 36858314 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most frequent type of dementia characterized by the deposition of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque and tau-neurofibrillary tangles (TNTs) in the brain. AD is associated with the disturbances of various neurotransmitters including gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Of note, GABA is reduced in AD, and restoration of GABA effect by benzodiazepines (BDZs) may improve AD outcomes. However, BDZs may adversely affect cognitive functions chiefly in elderly AD patients with sleep disorders. Besides, there is a controversy regarding the use of BDZs in AD. Consequently, the objective of the present review was to disclose the possible role of BDZs on the pathogenesis of AD that might be beneficial, neutral, or detrimental effects on AD. Prolonged use of intermediate-acting BDZ lorazepam exerts amnesic effects due to attenuation of synaptic plasticity and impairment of recognition memory. However, BDZs may have a protective effect against the development of AD by reducing tau phosphorylation, neuroinflammation, and progression of AD neuropathology. On the other side, other findings highlighted that extended use of BDZs was not associated with the development of AD. In conclusion, there are controversial points concerning the use of BDZs and the risk for the progression of AD. Thus, preclinical, and clinical studies are essential in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M Al-Kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriya University, Bagdad, Iraq
| | - Ali I Al-Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriya University, Bagdad, Iraq
| | - Abdulrahman A Alsayegh
- Clinical Nutrition Department Applied Medical Sciences, College Jazan University, Jazan 82817, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Wafaa Fouzi Abusudah
- Clinical Nutrition Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Najlaa Hamed Almohmadi
- Clinical Nutrition Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Omayma A Eldahshan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Eman A Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt.
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Al Beheira, Egypt.
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9
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Al-Kuraishy HM, Al-Gareeb AI, Saad HM, Batiha GES. Benzodiazepines in Alzheimer's disease: beneficial or detrimental effects. Inflammopharmacology 2023; 31:221-230. [PMID: 36418599 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-022-01099-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Dementia is considered a clinical syndrome characterized by cognitive dysfunction and memory loss. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia. AD is linked with the turbulence of diverse neurotransmitters including gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Notably, GABA in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid was reduced in AD. Thus, allosteric modulation of the GABA effect by benzodiazepines (BDZs) may improve the clinical outcomes of AD patients. Therefore, the objective of the present review was to reveal the possible role of BDZs on the pathogenesis and clinical outcomes in AD patients. Though BDZs may adversely affect cognitive functions mainly in elderly patients, herein it was postulated that BDZs may have beneficial, neutral, or detrimental effects in AD. Taken together, there is strong controversy regarding the use of BDZs and the risk for the development of AD. Therefore, experimental, preclinical and clinical studies are critical to determine the potential protective or detrimental effects of BDZs on AD neuropathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M Al-Kuraishy
- Professor in Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicine, Medical Faculty, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriyah University, P.O. Box 14132, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ali I Al-Gareeb
- Professor in Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Medicine, Medical Faculty, College of Medicine, Al-Mustansiriyah University, P.O. Box 14132, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Hebatallah M Saad
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Matrouh University, Marsa Matruh, 51744, Egypt.
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 22511, Egypt.
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10
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Zhou H, Li H, Gowravaram N, Quan M, Kausar N, Gomperts SN. Disruption of hippocampal neuronal circuit function depends upon behavioral state in the APP/PS1 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21022. [PMID: 36471155 PMCID: PMC9723144 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25364-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Alzheimer's disease-associated peptide amyloid-beta (Aβ) has been associated with neuronal hyperactivity under anesthesia, but clinical trials of anticonvulsants or neural system suppressors have, so far, failed to improve symptoms in AD. Using simultaneous hippocampal calcium imaging and electrophysiology in freely moving mice expressing human Aβ, here we show that Aβ aggregates perturbed neural systems in a state-dependent fashion, driving neuronal hyperactivity in exploratory behavior and slow wave sleep (SWS), yet suppressing activity in quiet wakefulness (QW) and REM sleep. In exploratory behavior and REM sleep, Aβ impaired hippocampal theta-gamma phase-amplitude coupling and altered neuronal synchronization with theta. In SWS, Aβ reduced cortical slow oscillation (SO) power, the coordination of hippocampal sharp wave-ripples with both the SO and thalamocortical spindles, and the coordination of calcium transients with the sharp wave-ripple. Physostigmine improved Aβ-associated hyperactivity in exploratory behavior and hypoactivity in QW and expanded the range of gamma that coupled with theta phase, but exacerbated hypoactivity in exploratory behavior. Together, these findings show that the effects of Aβ alone on hippocampal circuit function are profoundly state dependent and suggest a reformulation of therapeutic strategies aimed at Aβ induced hyperexcitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Zhou
- grid.32224.350000 0004 0386 9924MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA USA ,grid.417303.20000 0000 9927 0537Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease and Bioinformation, Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Hanyan Li
- grid.32224.350000 0004 0386 9924MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA USA
| | - Niket Gowravaram
- grid.32224.350000 0004 0386 9924MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA USA
| | - Moqin Quan
- grid.32224.350000 0004 0386 9924MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA USA
| | - Naila Kausar
- grid.32224.350000 0004 0386 9924MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA USA
| | - Stephen N. Gomperts
- grid.32224.350000 0004 0386 9924MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA USA
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11
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Joshi A, Todd S, Finn DP, McClean PL, Wong-Lin K. Multi-dimensional relationships among dementia, depression and prescribed drugs in England and Wales hospitals. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2022; 22:262. [PMID: 36207697 PMCID: PMC9547465 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-022-01892-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dementia is a group of symptoms that largely affects older people. The majority of patients face behavioural and psychological symptoms (BPSD) during the course of their illness. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD) are two of the most prevalent types of dementia. Available medications provide symptomatic benefits and provide relief from BPSD and associated health issues. However, it is unclear how specific dementia, antidepressant, antipsychotic, antianxiety, and mood stabiliser drugs, used in the treatment of depression and dementia subtypes are prescribed in hospital admission, during hospital stay, and at the time of discharge. To address this, we apply multi-dimensional data analytical approaches to understand drug prescribing practices within hospitals in England and Wales. Methods We made use of the UK National Audit of Dementia (NAD) dataset and pre-processed the dataset. We evaluated the pairwise Pearson correlation of the dataset and selected key data features which are highly correlated with dementia subtypes. After that, we selected drug prescribing behaviours (e.g. specific medications at the time of admission, during the hospital stay, and upon discharge), drugs and disorders. Then to shed light on the relations across multiple features or dimensions, we carried out multiple regression analyses, considering the number of dementia, antidepressant, antipsychotic, antianxiety, mood stabiliser, and antiepileptic/anticonvulsant drug prescriptions as dependent variables, and the prescription of other drugs, number of patients with dementia subtypes (AD/VaD), and depression as independent variables. Results In terms of antidepressant drugs prescribed in hospital admission, during stay and discharge, the number of sertraline and venlafaxine prescriptions were associated with the number of VaD patients whilst the number of mirtazapine prescriptions was associated with frontotemporal dementia patients. During admission, the number of lamotrigine prescriptions was associated with frontotemporal dementia patients, and with the number of valproate and dosulepin prescriptions. During discharge, the number of mirtazapine prescriptions was associated with the number of donepezil prescriptions in conjunction with frontotemporal dementia patients. Finally, the number of prescriptions of donepezil/memantine at admission, during hospital stay and at discharge exhibited positive association with AD patients. Conclusion Our analyses reveal a complex, multifaceted set of interactions among prescribed drug types, dementia subtypes, and depression. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12911-022-01892-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok Joshi
- Intelligent Systems Research Centre, Ulster University, Magee Campus, Derry~Londonderry, Northern Ireland, UK. .,Department of Computer Science, University of Bath, Bath, UK.
| | - Stephen Todd
- Altnagelvin Area Hospital, Western Health and Social Care Trust, Derry~Londonderry, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - David P Finn
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Galway Neuroscience Centre, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Paula L McClean
- Northern Ireland Centre for Stratified Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Magee Campus, Derry~Londonderry, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - KongFatt Wong-Lin
- Intelligent Systems Research Centre, Ulster University, Magee Campus, Derry~Londonderry, Northern Ireland, UK.
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12
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Pinus halepensis Essential Oil Ameliorates Aβ1-42-Induced Brain Injury by Diminishing Anxiety, Oxidative Stress, and Neuroinflammation in Rats. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092300. [PMID: 36140401 PMCID: PMC9496595 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092300] [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: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The Pinus L. genus comprises around 250 species, being popular worldwide for their medicinal and aromatic properties. The present study aimed to evaluate the P. halepensis Mill. essential oil (PNO) in an Alzheimer’s disease (AD) environment as an anxiolytic and antidepressant agent. The AD-like symptoms were induced in Wistar male rats by intracerebroventricular administration of amyloid beta1-42 (Aβ1-42), and PNO (1% and 3%) was delivered to Aβ1-42 pre-treated rats via inhalation route for 21 consecutive days, 30 min before behavioral assessments. The obtained results indicate PNO’s potential to relieve anxious–depressive features and to restore redox imbalance in the rats exhibiting AD-like neuropsychiatric impairments. Moreover, PNO presented beneficial effects against neuroinflammation and neuroapoptosis in the Aβ1-42 rat AD model.
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13
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Ward K, Citrome L. AXS-05: an investigational treatment for Alzheimer's disease-associated agitation. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2022; 31:773-780. [PMID: 35763451 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2022.2096006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Agitation is common in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although nonpharmacologic de-escalation strategies are recommend as first-line treatment, medication is often needed to treat agitation. Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications for this indication. Psychotropics used to treat agitation include antipsychotics, which are notable for their efficacy but also their potential to cause serious side effects. AXS-05, a combination of dextromethorphan and bupropion, is currently being investigated for this indication. AREAS COVERED This review will discuss the pharmacology of AXS-05 and available clinical trial results from completed Phase I and Phase II/III studies assessing the potential for this compound to treat agitation in patients with AD. Ongoing research investigating AXS-05 for this indication will also be highlighted. Resources used for this review include PubMed, Embase, clinicaltrials.gov, and literature available on the manufacturer's website. EXPERT OPINION Early released clinical trial data indicate that AXS-05 may be a useful option to treat agitation in patients with AD, and that it appears to be generally well tolerated. AXS-05 may be especially helpful for patients with comorbid depression, when considering available data from separate phase III studies assessing the efficacy and safety of this compound in the treatment of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Ward
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Leslie Citrome
- Clinical Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
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14
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Abstract
Aim: Since publication of the CDC 2016 Guideline, opioid-related mortality in the USA has doubled and a crisis has developed among the 15-20 million Americans with chronic, moderate-to-severe, noncancer pain. Our aim was to develop a comprehensive alternative approach to management of chronic pain. Methods: Analytic review of the clinical literature. Results: Published science provides a solid framework for the management of chronic non-cancer pain, detailed here, even as it leaves many knowledge gaps, which we fill with insights from clinical experience. Conclusion: There is a sufficient basis in science and in clinical experience to achieve adequate control of chronic pain in nearly all patients in a way that adequately balances benefits and potential harms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen E Nadeau
- Neurology Service & the Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center & the Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, FL 32608-1197, USA
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15
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Ayani N, Oya N, Kitaoka R, Kuwahara A, Morimoto T, Sakuma M, Narumoto J. Epidemiology of adverse drug events and medication errors in four nursing homes in Japan: the Japan Adverse Drug Events (JADE) Study. BMJ Qual Saf 2022; 31:878-887. [PMID: 35450935 DOI: 10.1136/bmjqs-2021-014280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, the emergence of super-ageing societies has increased the number of older people requiring support for daily activities. Many elderly residents of nursing homes (NHs) take drugs to treat chronic conditions; however, there are few reports of medication safety in NHs, especially from non-western countries. OBJECTIVE We examined the incidence and nature of adverse drug events (ADEs) and medication errors (MEs) in NHs for the elderly in Japan. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS The Japan Adverse Drug Events Study for NHs is a prospective cohort study that was conducted among all residents, except for short-term admissions, at four NHs for older people in Japan for 1 year. MEASUREMENTS Trained physicians and psychologists, five and six in number, respectively, reviewed all charts of the residents to identify suspected ADEs and MEs, which were then classified by the physicians into ADEs, potential ADEs and other MEs after the exclusion of ineligible events, for the assessment of their severity and preventability. The kappa score for presence of an ADE and preventability were 0.89 and 0.79, respectively. RESULTS We enrolled 459 residents, and this yielded 3315 resident-months of observation time. We identified 1207 ADEs and 600 MEs (incidence: 36.4 and 18.1 per 100 resident-months, respectively) during the study period. About one-third of ADEs were preventable, and MEs were most frequently observed in the monitoring stage (72%, 433/600), with 71% of the MEs occurring due to inadequate observation following the physician's prescription. CONCLUSION In Japan, ADEs and MEs are common among elderly residents of NHs. The assessment and appropriate adjustment of medication preadmission and postadmission to NHs are needed to improve medication safety, especially when a single physician is responsible for prescribing most medications for the residents, as is usually the case in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobutaka Ayani
- Psychiatry, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan .,Psychiatry, National Hospital Organisation Maizuru Medical Center, Maizuru, Japan
| | - Nozomu Oya
- Psychiatry, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Riki Kitaoka
- Psychiatry, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akiko Kuwahara
- Psychiatry, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takeshi Morimoto
- Clinical Epidemiology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Mio Sakuma
- Clinical Epidemiology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan
| | - Jin Narumoto
- Psychiatry, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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16
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Tran CT, Bøg M, Collings SL, Johnson M, Qizilbash N, Lind S, Baker RA, Jørgensen KT. Antipsychotic treatment patterns in Alzheimer's disease patients with agitation: a cohort study using the UK clinical practice research datalink. Curr Med Res Opin 2022; 38:409-416. [PMID: 35068266 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2022.2029381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is a lack of robust epidemiological evidence on antipsychotic (AP) use in patients with agitation in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Authors studied AP use in patients with AD and agitation and compared their use with patients with other or no neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS). METHODS A retrospective cohort study in the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink, included patients with AD between January 1st, 2015, and December 31st, 2017. AP use was compared between patients with agitation, other types of NPS and no NPS. RESULTS There were 24,464 patients with AD, median follow-up of 1.1 years (interquartile range [IQR] 0.5-2.1), and median age 83 years (78-88). A larger percentage of patients with agitation (n = 2432) were prescribed APs (38.2%) than other NPS (n = 13,076, 20.4%) and no NPS (n = 11,816, 12.2%). Compared to patients with no NPS, adjusted hazard ratios for AP use were 3.45 (95% CI 2.86-4.17) for patients with agitation and 1.31 (95% CI 1.19-1.44) for patients with other NPS. Among users of APs, the treatment discontinuation rate at six months was 44.8% in patients with agitation (other NPS 57.1%; no NPS 63.5%). CONCLUSIONS Patients with AD and agitation were frequently prescribed APs and for long periods in routine clinical practice in the UK. The high real-life usage of APs suggests that physicians prefer using APs for the treatment of agitation despite recommendations against their long-term use. These data support a need for AP therapies that better address known safety concerns with currently used APs to treat agitation in elderly patients with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martin Bøg
- H. Lundbeck A/S (Lundbeck), Valby, Denmark
| | | | | | - Nawab Qizilbash
- OXON Epidemiology, London, UK
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Ross A Baker
- Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development and Commercialization, Inc, Princeton, NJ, USA
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17
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Benca R, Herring WJ, Khandker R, Qureshi ZP. Burden of Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances and the Impact of Sleep Treatments in Patients with Probable or Possible Alzheimer's Disease: A Structured Literature Review. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 86:83-109. [PMID: 35001893 PMCID: PMC9028660 DOI: 10.3233/jad-215324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background: Sleep disturbances are frequent in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Objective: To summarize the impact of sleep disturbances on AD patients and their caregivers and the effects of currently available sleep therapies. Methods: Published studies (January 1985–March 2020) assessing the burden associated with insomnia/sleep disturbances in the AD population and insomnia treatment effects were identified by searching PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library and screened against inclusion criteria. Results: 58 studies assessing patient and caregiver burden, institutionalization, and insomnia treatments in AD patients with sleep disturbances were identified. Sleep disturbances were associated with worse cognition, functional ability, and behavioral and neuropsychological functioning. Health status and quality of life of both patients and caregivers were reduced in the presence of sleep disturbances. Sleep disturbances were also associated with institutionalization. Although significant associations between sleep problems and clinical outcomes were apparent, there was generally no control for other influencing factors (e.g., cognitive status). Bright light and behavioral therapies as well as drugs showed some promise in AD patients, but studies were primarily small and limited data were available, particularly in regard to the effect on associated clinical burden. Conclusion: Sleep disturbances are a significant problem for AD patients and caregivers, associated with behavioral and psychological problems and cognitive decline. However, they remain poorly characterized and under-researched. As the global population is aging and AD is on thes rise, data from larger, prospective trials are required to fully understand the clinical correlates of sleep disturbances and the impact insomnia treatments can have.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Benca
- University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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18
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Rijksen DOC, Zuidema SU, de Haas EC. Use of Benzodiazepines and Z-Drugs in Nursing Home Residents with Dementia: Prevalence and Appropriateness. J Alzheimers Dis Rep 2022; 5:871-879. [PMID: 35088036 PMCID: PMC8764627 DOI: 10.3233/adr-210041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Guidelines worldwide recommend restricted prescription of benzodiazepine receptor agonists (BZRAs), i.e., benzodiazepines and Z-drugs, for the treatment of dementia-associated behavioral and psychological symptoms and insomnia. Objective: To assess the prevalence and appropriateness of BZRA use among nursing home residents with dementia. Methods: This is a post-hoc analysis of BZRA prescriptions from two intervention studies on psychotropic drug use, conducted from 2016 to 2018. It includes 1,111 residents of dementia special care units from 24 Dutch long-term care organizations. We assessed the prevalence of use of continuous and as-needed BZRA prescriptions and their association with registered symptoms. Continuous BZRA prescriptions were evaluated for appropriateness, i.e., whether indication, dosage, duration, and evaluation accorded with guidelines for the treatment of challenging behavior in dementia and sleep disorders. Results: The prevalence of BZRA use is 39.2% (95% CI: 36.3%–42.0%): continuous 22.9%; only as-needed 16.3%. Combinations of preferred BZRAs and appropriate indications occur in 19.0% of continuous anxiolytic prescriptions and 44.8% of hypnotic prescriptions. Frequently registered inappropriate indications are aggression/agitation for anxiolytics (continuous: 75.7%; as-needed: 75.2%) and nighttime agitation for hypnotics (continuous: 40.3%; as-needed: 26.7%). None of the continuous prescriptions with appropriate indications were appropriate for all other items. For most of the prescriptions, duration and time to evaluation exceeded 4 weeks. Conclusion: BZRA use in nursing home residents with dementia is highly frequent. A large proportion of prescriptions do not follow the guidelines with regard to indication, exceed the recommended duration and are not evaluated in a timely manner. The discrepancy between evidence-based guidelines and daily practice calls for an exploration of factors maintaining inappropriate use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk O C Rijksen
- Carintreggeland, Center for Specialized Geriatric Care, Hengelo, The Netherlands
| | - Sytse U Zuidema
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Esther C de Haas
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
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Bhoopatiraju S, Grossberg G. Emerging Perspectives in the Management of Agitation in Alzheimer's Disease and Patients with Dementia. Neurology 2022. [DOI: 10.17925/usn.2022.18.1.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
While Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia, is perhaps best characterized by cognitive decline, more than 90% of patients exhibit behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. Agitation in patients with dementia is often difficult to manage, and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients and a heightened caregiver burden. Thus, effective management of dementia-related agitation (DRA) is vital. Care should first be taken to consider and address causes of agitation and aggression, after which non-pharmacological interventions should be employed. If non-pharmacological measures are unsuccessful in reducing DRA then medications should be considered, although none are approved by the Food and Drug Administration for this indication. Electroconvulsive therapy may be a promising option for patients with treatment-refractory DRA, although more studies are needed. While there are several drugs in the pipeline for DRA treatment, results from robust randomized clinical trials are necessary before they can be administered to patients. Thus, clinicians should employ current strategies to manage DRA to ensure holistic care for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
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20
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Forgerini M, Lucchetta RC, Oliveira FM, Herdeiro MT, Capela MV, Mastroianni PDC. Impact of pharmacist intervention in patients with Alzheimer's disease. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/s2175-97902022e19876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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21
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Heilman KM, Nadeau SE. Emotional and Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Alzheimer's Disease. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:99-116. [PMID: 35013934 PMCID: PMC9130428 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01172-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is associated with impairments in emotional communication including comprehension and production of facial emotional expressions, comprehension of affective prosody, and alexithymia. It is also associated with disorders of emotional experience including mood disorders (depression and anxiety), agitation/aggression, and psychosis. Agitation/aggression and psychosis are particularly disruptive, are associated with earlier institutionalization, and pose a major challenge to institutional management. Treatment of disorders of emotional experience has been primarily pharmacologic (reviewed here in detail) and has relied heavily on antipsychotic medications despite the small effect sizes demonstrated in a large number of randomized controlled trials and the prevalence of serious side effects associated with these drugs. Recent studies suggest that treatment with pimavanserin, an antipsychotic without activity at dopamine receptors, may represent an important advance for treatment of psychotic manifestations, even as the drug appears to pose significant risk. Dextromethorphan/quinidine may represent an important advance in the treatment of agitation/aggression. There is also compelling evidence that sleep disorders, which are common among patients with Alzheimer's disease and are readily treatable, may potentiate psychotic manifestations and agitation/aggression, but further studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth M Heilman
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, 1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL, 32608-1197, USA
- The Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, 1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL, 32608-1197, USA
- Malcom Randall VA Medical Center and the Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Stephen E Nadeau
- Research Service, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, 1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL, 32608-1197, USA.
- The Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, 1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL, 32608-1197, USA.
- Malcom Randall VA Medical Center and the Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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Shrestha S, Poudel A, Cardona M, Steadman KJ, Nissen LM. Impact of deprescribing dual-purpose medications on patient-related outcomes for older adults near end-of-life: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ther Adv Drug Saf 2021; 12:20420986211052343. [PMID: 34707802 PMCID: PMC8543710 DOI: 10.1177/20420986211052343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The decision to deprescribe medications used for both disease prevention and
symptom control (dual-purpose medications or DPMs) is often challenging for
clinicians. We aim to establish the impact of deprescribing DPMs on
patient-related outcomes for older adults near end-of-life (EOL). Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA (Preferred
Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guideline.
Literature was searched on PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Google
Scholar until December 2019 for studies on deprescribing intervention with a
control group (with or without randomisation); targeting ⩾65-year olds, at
EOL, with at least one life-limiting illness and at least one potentially
inappropriate DPM. We were interested in any patient-related outcomes.
Studies with similar outcome assessment criteria were subjected to
meta-analysis and narrative synthesis otherwise. The risk of bias was
assessed using Cochrane Risk of Bias and ROBINS-I tools for randomised
controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental non-randomised controlled
studies, respectively. Results: Five studies covering 689 participants with mean age 81.6–85.7 years, the
majority (74.6–100%) with dementia were included. The risk of bias was
moderate to low. The deprescribing of DPMs lowered the risk of mortality
(risk ratio (RR) = 0.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.44–0.79) and
referral to acute care facilities (RR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.22–0.73), but did
not have a significant impact on the risk of falls, non-vertebral fracture,
emergency presentation, unplanned hospital admission, or general
practitioner visits. No significant difference was observed in the quality
of life, physical and cognitive functions between the intervention and
control groups. Conclusion: There is some evidence that deprescribing of DPMs for older adults near the
EOL can lower the risk of mortality and referral to acute care facilities,
but there are insufficient good-quality studies powered to confirm a benefit
in terms of quality of life, physical or cognitive function, health service
utilisation and adverse events. Plain Language Summary What is the health impact of withdrawal or dose reduction of
medication used for disease prevention and symptom control in older
adults near end-of-life? Introduction: Older adults (aged ⩾ 65 years) with advanced
diseases such as cancer, dementia, and organ failure tend to have a limited
life expectancy. With the progression of these diseases towards the
end-of-life, the intensity for day-to-day supportive care becomes
increasingly necessary. The use of medications for symptom management is a
critical part of such care, but the use of medications for long-term disease
prevention can become irrelevant due to the already shortened life
expectancy and may become harmful due to alterations in physiology and
pharmacology associated with age and frailty. This necessitates the
withdrawal or dose reduction of inappropriate medications, the process
called deprescribing. The decision to deprescribe medications used for both
disease prevention and symptom control (DPMs) in this population is often
challenging for clinicians. In this context, whether deprescribing of DPMs
can improve patient-related health outcomes is unknown. Methods: Evidence from the literature was reviewed and analysed,
and the quality of studies was assessed. Five studies were identified, which
had 689 participants with an average age above 80 years and mostly suffering
from dementia. Results: The analysis of these studies showed deprescribing of
DPMs lowered the risk of death and referral to acute care facilities at 12
months but had no significant impact on falls, non-vertebral fractures,
emergency presentations, unplanned hospital admission, general practitioner
visits, quality of life, physical and mental functions. Conclusion: In conclusion, there were insufficient numbers of
high-quality studies powered to confirm whether deprescribing of DPMs
reduces adverse events, health service use, or improves the quality of life
or functioning in older adults near the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakti Shrestha
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, Level 4, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Arjun Poudel
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Magnolia Cardona
- EBP Professorial Unit, Gold Coast University Hospital, Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Kathryn J Steadman
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lisa M Nissen
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Banerjee S, High J, Stirling S, Shepstone L, Swart AM, Telling T, Henderson C, Ballard C, Bentham P, Burns A, Farina N, Fox C, Francis P, Howard R, Knapp M, Leroi I, Livingston G, Nilforooshan R, Nurock S, O'Brien J, Price A, Thomas AJ, Tabet N. Study of mirtazapine for agitated behaviours in dementia (SYMBAD): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet 2021; 398:1487-1497. [PMID: 34688369 PMCID: PMC8546216 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)01210-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Agitation is common in people with dementia and negatively affects the quality of life of both people with dementia and carers. Non-drug patient-centred care is the first-line treatment, but there is a need for other treatment when this care is not effective. Current evidence is sparse on safer and effective alternatives to antipsychotics. We assessed the efficacy and safety of mirtazapine, an antidepressant prescribed for agitation in dementia. METHODS This parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial-the Study of Mirtazapine for Agitated Behaviours in Dementia trial (SYMBAD)-was done in 26 UK centres. Participants had probable or possible Alzheimer's disease, agitation unresponsive to non-drug treatment, and a Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) score of 45 or more. They were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either mirtazapine (titrated to 45 mg) or placebo. The primary outcome was reduction in CMAI score at 12 weeks. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03031184, and ISRCTN17411897. FINDINGS Between Jan 26, 2017, and March 6, 2020, 204 participants were recruited and randomised. Mean CMAI scores at 12 weeks were not significantly different between participants receiving mirtazapine and participants receiving placebo (adjusted mean difference -1·74, 95% CI -7·17 to 3·69; p=0·53). The number of controls with adverse events (65 [64%] of 102 controls) was similar to that in the mirtazapine group (67 [66%] of 102 participants receiving mirtazapine). However, there were more deaths in the mirtazapine group (n=7) by week 16 than in the control group (n=1), with post-hoc analysis suggesting this difference was of marginal statistical significance (p=0·065). INTERPRETATION This trial found no benefit of mirtazapine compared with placebo, and we observed a potentially higher mortality with use of mirtazapine. The data from this study do not support using mirtazapine as a treatment for agitation in dementia. FUNDING UK National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment Programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sube Banerjee
- Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK.
| | - Juliet High
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Susan Stirling
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Lee Shepstone
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Ann Marie Swart
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Tanya Telling
- Joint Clinical Research Office, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Catherine Henderson
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Clive Ballard
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Peter Bentham
- Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Nicolas Farina
- Centre for Dementia Studies, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Chris Fox
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Paul Francis
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Martin Knapp
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Iracema Leroi
- Department of Psychiatry, Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gill Livingston
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Shirley Nurock
- Former Carer, Alzheimer's Society Research Network, University of Cambridge School of Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - John O'Brien
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge School of Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - Annabel Price
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alan J Thomas
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Naji Tabet
- Centre for Dementia Studies, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
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Roland JP, Bliwise DL. Impact of Pharmacotherapy on Insomnia in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease. Drugs Aging 2021; 38:951-966. [PMID: 34569029 PMCID: PMC8593056 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-021-00891-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Insomnia is a pervasive sleep disorder affecting numerous patients across diverse demographical populations and comorbid disease states. Contributing factors are often a complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social components, requiring a multifaceted approach in terms of both diagnosis and management. In the setting of Alzheimer’s disease, insomnia is an even more complicated issue, with a higher overall prevalence than in the general population, greater complexity of contributing etiologies, and differences in diagnosis (at times based on caregiver observation of sleep disruption rather than subjective complaints by the individual with the disorder), and requiring more discretion in terms of treatment, particularly in regard to adverse effect profile concerns. There also is growing evidence of the bidirectional nature of sleep disruption and Alzheimer’s disease, with insomnia potentially contributing to disease progression, making the condition even more paramount to address. The objective of this review was to provide the clinician with an overview of treatment strategies that may have value in the treatment of disturbed sleep in Alzheimer’s disease. Nonpharmacological approaches to treatment should be exhausted foremost; however, pharmacotherapy may be needed in certain clinical scenarios, which can be a challenge for clinicians given the paucity of evidence and guidelines for treatment in the subpopulation of Alzheimer’s disease. Agents such as sedating antidepressants, melatonin, and site-specific γ-aminobutyric acid agonists are often employed based on historical usage but are not necessarily supported by high-quality trials. Newer agents such as dual orexin receptor antagonists have demonstrated some promise but still need further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua P Roland
- Department of Pulmonology, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, UCLA, 700 W. 7th Street, Suite S270-D, Los Angeles, CA, 90017, USA.
| | - Donald L Bliwise
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Moth AE, Hølmkjær P, Holm A, Rozing MP, Overbeck G. What Makes Deprescription of Psychotropic Drugs in Nursing Home Residents with Dementia so Challenging? A Qualitative Systematic Review of Barriers and Facilitators. Drugs Aging 2021; 38:671-685. [PMID: 34231182 PMCID: PMC8342345 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-021-00875-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia are frequently experienced in the nursing home setting and place a substantial burden on patients, relatives, and nursing home staff. Despite guidelines recommending non-pharmacological treatments, psychotropic drugs are often prescribed to address these symptoms. This is the case despite their effects being limited, and there being a risk of side effects and adverse events for the patient. Several studies have aimed to reduce the use of psychotropic drugs, with varying results. The reasons behind these variations are not well understood. Objectives The objective of this systematic review was to investigate which factors nursing home general practitioners and nursing home staff experience as barriers or facilitators when attempting to deprescribe psychotropic drugs in nursing home residents. Methods We searched PubMed, EMBASE, psycINFO, Web of Science, and CINAHL between April and September 2020. An inductive method using thematic analysis of the qualitative findings was applied for the derivation of themes. Quantitative studies were included but described descriptively and separately. Results Of 8204 unique records, 14 studies were included in the review. Of these, nine were interview or focus group studies and five were survey studies. Thematic analysis resulted in five major themes identified as either facilitators or barriers or both: (1) ‘Operationality and routines’; (2) ‘Lack of resources and qualifications’; (3) ‘Patient-related outcomes’, which points to a strong belief in negative patient-related outcomes of discontinuation and a downplay of side effects of the medication; (4) ‘Policies’, including support and buy-in from nursing home leadership; and (5) ‘Collaboration’ between physicians and nursing home staff. Themes 1 and 4 consist of facilitators. Theme 2 consists of barriers. Theme 3 and 5 consist of both facilitators and barriers. Evaluation of closed-ended questions from the surveys supported the findings. Conclusions Deprescribing psychotropic drugs used for behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia in nursing home residents is challenging. Resources need to be in place for deprescribing, as well as there being a focus on the positive patient-related outcomes of doing so. Managerial support, staff routines, and interprofessional collaboration are some factors facilitating the process, in addition to there being routines and systematic procedures in place allowing for operationality and a common understanding. Addressing these barriers and facilitators is necessary to ensure that deprescribing can be understood as meaningful and pursued among healthcare professionals in the nursing home setting. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40266-021-00875-1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pernille Hølmkjær
- Department of General Practice, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Anne Holm
- Department of General Practice, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Gritt Overbeck
- Department of General Practice, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Clinical impact of antipsychotic and benzodiazepine reduction: findings from a multicomponent psychotropic reduction program within long-term aged care. Int Psychogeriatr 2021; 33:587-599. [PMID: 32618535 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610220000940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the relationships between dose changes to antipsychotic and/or benzodiazepine medications and resident outcomes, including variations in neuropsychiatric symptoms, quality of life (QoL), and social withdrawal, within a multicomponent, interdisciplinary antipsychotic and benzodiazepine dose reduction program. DESIGN Prospective, observational, longitudinal study. INTERVENTION The Reducing Use of Sedatives (RedUSe) project involved 150 Australian Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) incorporating auditing and benchmarking of prescribing, education, and multidisciplinary sedative reviews. SETTING A convenience sample of LTCFs (n = 28) involved in RedUSe between January 2015 and March 2016. PARTICIPANTS Permanent residents (n = 206) of LTCFs involved in RedUSe taking an antipsychotic and/or benzodiazepine daily. Residents were excluded if they had a severe psychiatric condition where antipsychotic therapy should generally be maintained long-term (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia) or were considered end-stage palliative. MEASUREMENTS Neuropsychiatric symptoms (Neuropsychiatric Inventory, Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI)), QoL (Assessment of Quality of Life-4D), and social withdrawal (Multidimensional Observation Scale for Elderly Subjects-withdrawal subscale) were measured at baseline and 4 months where nursing staff completed psychometric tests as proxy raters. RESULTS There was no evidence that psychometric measures were worsened following dose reductions. In fact, dose reduction was associated with small, albeit non-statistically significant, improvements in behavior, particularly less physically non-aggressive behavior with both drug groups (-0.36 points per 10% reduction in antipsychotic dose, -0.17 per 10% reduction in benzodiazepine dose) and verbally agitated behavior with benzodiazepine reduction (-0.16 per 10% dose reduction), as measured with the CMAI. Furthermore, antipsychotic reduction was associated with non-statistically significant improvements in QoL and social withdrawal. CONCLUSIONS Antipsychotic and benzodiazepine dose reduction in LTCFs was not associated with deterioration in neuropsychiatric symptoms, QoL, or social withdrawal. Trends toward improved agitation with antipsychotic and benzodiazepine dose reduction require further evaluation in larger, prospective, controlled studies.
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Jia J, Xu J, Liu J, Wang Y, Wang Y, Cao Y, Guo Q, Qu Q, Wei C, Wei W, Zhang J, Yu E. Comprehensive Management of Daily Living Activities, behavioral and Psychological Symptoms, and Cognitive Function in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease: A Chinese Consensus on the Comprehensive Management of Alzheimer's Disease. Neurosci Bull 2021; 37:1025-1038. [PMID: 34050523 PMCID: PMC8275730 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-021-00701-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cognitive disorder in the elderly. Its main clinical manifestations are cognitive decline (C), behavioral and psychological symptoms (B), and a decline in the activities of daily living (A), also known as ABC symptoms. Early identification and evaluation of ABC symptoms are helpful for establishing the accurate diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and prognosis of AD. To guide Chinese clinical practice for optimization of the comprehensive management of AD, in 2018, The Academy of Cognitive Disorder of China gathered 22 neurologists and gerontologists in China to build a consensus on the comprehensive management of AD. Based on a review of the evidence, the consensus summarizes the pathogenesis, pathological changes, clinical manifestations, evaluation, diagnosis, drug and non-drug treatment, and patient care for AD. Focus group discussion was used to establish a flowchart of comprehensive ABC management for AD patients. The new consensus provides a feasible AD management process for clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjun Jia
- Department of Neurology, The Second Medical Center, People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Neurology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Yongjun Wang
- Cognitive Impairment Department, Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, Shenzhen, 518118, China
| | - Yanjiang Wang
- Department of Neurology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yunpeng Cao
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 210112, China
| | - Qihao Guo
- Department of Gerontology, Shanghai Jiaotong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Qiuming Qu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Cuibai Wei
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053, China
| | - Wenshi Wei
- Department of Neurology, Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Junjian Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Enyan Yu
- Department of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Cancer Hospital of the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, China
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Khoury R, Marx C, Mirgati S, Velury D, Chakkamparambil B, Grossberg GT. AVP-786 as a promising treatment option for Alzheimer's Disease including agitation. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 22:783-795. [PMID: 33615952 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1882995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To date, there is no FDA-approved treatment for agitation in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Medications currently used off-label have modest clinical efficacy and serious side effects. AREAS COVERED The authors review the pharmacology, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety and tolerability data of AVP-786, for the treatment of agitation in AD. EXPERT OPINION AVP-786, the deuterated form of dextromethorphan/quinidine (AVP-923) which is an approved treatment for Pseudo-Bulbar Affect, emerges as a promising and safe treatment for agitation in AD. Deuteration is an innovative technology that accelerates drug development by conducting faster and less costly clinical trials. No phase II trial was conducted with AVP-786 for the treatment of agitation in AD; the decision to expedite the development of this drug was based on a successful phase II study with AVP-923. Phase III trials with AVP-786 (TRIAD-1 and TRIAD-2) showed mixed findings probably due to the difference in study design. Future phase III studies should use innovative study designs such as the Sequential Parallel Comparison Design to mitigate high placebo response, and the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory for agitation assessment. They should also include positron emission tomography studies to assess occupancy of various receptors in the brain after AVP-786 is administered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Khoury
- Department of Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology, Saint Georges Hospital University Medical Center University of Balamand, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Charlotte Marx
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, USA
| | - Sidney Mirgati
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, USA
| | - Divya Velury
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, USA
| | - Binu Chakkamparambil
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, USA
| | - George T Grossberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, USA
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Oliveira LDF, Camargos EF, Martini LLL, Machado FV, Novaes MRCG. Use of psychotropic agents to treat agitation and aggression in Brazilian patients with Alzheimer's disease: A naturalistic and multicenter study. Psychiatry Res 2021; 295:113591. [PMID: 33271491 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We assessed psychotropic prescribing patterns in the clinical treatment of agitation and aggressive behavior in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) treated at specialist outpatient clinics in the Federal District of Brazil. This was a naturalistic, observational, multicenter study of a convenience sample of patients with AD (according to DSM-5) who had behavioral symptoms of aggression and/or agitation at outpatient visits, as assessed by the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), and required pharmacologic intervention. Participants were recruited in 2018-2019 from 11 AD treatment centers. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected during routine visits. The sample consisted of 369 older adults with a mean age of 82.3 (SD, 7.7) years. The medications most commonly used in patients with behavioral disorders were antidepressants (79.1%), antipsychotics (70.2%), benzodiazepines (10.6%), and mood stabilizers (9.5%). Quetiapine was the most frequently prescribed antipsychotic medication (48.5%), at a mean dose of 57.4 (SD, 40.7) mg. Citalopram was the most widely used antidepressant medication (32.0%), at a mean daily dose of 24.1 (SD, 8.1) mg. In this sample, two or more pharmacologic agents were frequently used together to control aggression and agitation. Benzodiazepine was not frequently used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa de Freitas Oliveira
- Secretaria de Estado de Saúde do Distrito Federal, Geriatra(Staff geriatrician, Federal District Department of Health), Brasília, DF, Brazil.
| | - Einstein Francisco Camargos
- Hospital Universitário de Brasília, Geriatra(Staff geriatrician, University Hospital of Brasilia), Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | | | - Flávio Vieira Machado
- Programa de pós-graduação em Ciências Médicas, UnB, Psiquiatra(Psychiatrist, Graduate program in Medical Sciences), UnB, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Maria Rita Carvalho Garbi Novaes
- Fundação de Ensino e Pesquisa em Ciências da Saúde, Farmacêutica(Pharmacist, Health Sciences Teaching and Research Foundation), Brasília, DF, Brazil
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Richardson K, Savva GM, Boyd PJ, Aldus C, Maidment I, Pakpahan E, Loke YK, Arthur A, Steel N, Ballard C, Howard R, Fox C. Non-benzodiazepine hypnotic use for sleep disturbance in people aged over 55 years living with dementia: a series of cohort studies. Health Technol Assess 2021; 25:1-202. [PMID: 33410736 PMCID: PMC7812417 DOI: 10.3310/hta25010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep disturbance affects around 60% of people living with dementia and can negatively affect their quality of life and that of their carers. Hypnotic Z-drugs (zolpidem, zopiclone and zaleplon) are commonly used to treat insomnia, but their safety and efficacy have not been evaluated for people living with dementia. OBJECTIVES To estimate the benefits and harms of Z-drugs in people living with dementia with sleep disturbance. DESIGN A series of observational cohort studies using existing data from (1) primary care linked to hospital admission data and (2) clinical cohort studies of people living with dementia. DATA SOURCES Primary care study - Clinical Practice Research Datalink linked to Hospital Episode Statistics and Office for National Statistics mortality data. Clinical cohort studies - the Resource Use and Disease Course in Dementia - Nursing Homes (REDIC) study, National Alzheimer's Coordinating Centre (NACC) clinical data set and the Improving Well-being and Health for People with Dementia (WHELD) in nursing homes randomised controlled trial. SETTING Primary care study - 371 primary care practices in England. Clinical cohort studies - 47 nursing homes in Norway, 34 Alzheimer's disease centres in the USA and 69 care homes in England. PARTICIPANTS Primary care study - NHS England primary care patients diagnosed with dementia and aged > 55 years, with sleep disturbance or prescribed Z-drugs or low-dose tricyclic antidepressants, followed over 2 years. Clinical cohort studies - people living with dementia consenting to participate, followed over 3 years, 12 years and 9 months, for REDIC, NACC and WHELD, respectively. INTERVENTIONS The primary exposure was prescription or use of Z-drugs. Secondary exposures included prescription or use of benzodiazepines, low-dose tricyclic antidepressants and antipsychotics. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Falls, fractures, infection, stroke, venous thromboembolism, mortality, cognitive function and quality of life. There were insufficient data to investigate sleep disturbance. RESULTS The primary care study and combined clinical cohort studies included 6809 and 18,659 people living with dementia, with 3089 and 914 taking Z-drugs, respectively. New Z-drug use was associated with a greater risk of fractures (hazard ratio 1.40, 95% confidence interval 1.01 to 1.94), with risk increasing with greater cumulative dose (p = 0.002). The hazard ratio for Z-drug use and hip fracture was 1.59 (95% confidence interval 1.00 to 2.53) and for mortality was 1.34 (95% confidence interval 1.10 to 1.64). No excess risks of falls, infections, stroke or venous thromboembolism were detected. Z-drug use also did not have an impact on cognition, neuropsychiatric symptoms, disability or quality of life. LIMITATIONS Primary care study - possible residual confounding because of difficulties in identifying patients with sleep disturbance and by dementia severity. Clinical cohort studies - the small numbers of people living with dementia taking Z-drugs and outcomes not necessarily being measured before Z-drug initiation restricted analyses. CONCLUSIONS We observed a dose-dependent increase in fracture risk, but no other harms, with Z-drug use in dementia. However, multiple outcomes were examined, increasing the risk of false-positive findings. The mortality association was unlikely to be causal. Further research is needed to confirm the increased fracture risk. Decisions to prescribe Z-drugs may need to consider the risk of fractures, balanced against the impact of improved sleep for people living with dementia and that of their carers. Our findings suggest that when Z-drugs are prescribed, falls prevention strategies may be needed, and that the prescription should be regularly reviewed. FUTURE WORK More research is needed on safe and effective management strategies for sleep disturbance in people living with dementia. STUDY REGISTRATION This study is registered as European Union electronic Register of Post-Authorisation Studies (EU PAS) 18006. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 25, No. 1. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - George M Savva
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
- Quadram Institute, Norwich, UK
| | - Penelope J Boyd
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Clare Aldus
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Ian Maidment
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Eduwin Pakpahan
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Yoon K Loke
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Antony Arthur
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Nicholas Steel
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | | | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Chris Fox
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
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Toniolo S, Sen A, Husain M. Modulation of Brain Hyperexcitability: Potential New Therapeutic Approaches in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E9318. [PMID: 33297460 PMCID: PMC7730926 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
People with Alzheimer's disease (AD) have significantly higher rates of subclinical and overt epileptiform activity. In animal models, oligomeric Aβ amyloid is able to induce neuronal hyperexcitability even in the early phases of the disease. Such aberrant activity subsequently leads to downstream accumulation of toxic proteins, and ultimately to further neurodegeneration and neuronal silencing mediated by concomitant tau accumulation. Several neurotransmitters participate in the initial hyperexcitable state, with increased synaptic glutamatergic tone and decreased GABAergic inhibition. These changes appear to activate excitotoxic pathways and, ultimately, cause reduced long-term potentiation, increased long-term depression, and increased GABAergic inhibitory remodelling at the network level. Brain hyperexcitability has therefore been identified as a potential target for therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing cognition, and, possibly, disease modification in the longer term. Clinical trials are ongoing to evaluate the potential efficacy in targeting hyperexcitability in AD, with levetiracetam showing some encouraging effects. Newer compounds and techniques, such as gene editing via viral vectors or brain stimulation, also show promise. Diagnostic challenges include identifying best biomarkers for measuring sub-clinical epileptiform discharges. Determining the timing of any intervention is critical and future trials will need to carefully stratify participants with respect to the phase of disease pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Toniolo
- Cognitive Neurology Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK;
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6AE, UK
| | - Arjune Sen
- Oxford Epilepsy Research Group, Nuffield Department Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK;
| | - Masud Husain
- Cognitive Neurology Group, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK;
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6AE, UK
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Impaired Expression of GABA Signaling Components in the Alzheimer's Disease Middle Temporal Gyrus. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228704. [PMID: 33218044 PMCID: PMC7698927 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, playing a central role in the regulation of cortical excitability and the maintenance of the excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) balance. Several lines of evidence point to a remodeling of the cerebral GABAergic system in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), with past studies demonstrating alterations in GABA receptor and transporter expression, GABA synthesizing enzyme activity and focal GABA concentrations in post-mortem tissue. AD is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder with a poorly understood etiology and the temporal cortex is one of the earliest regions in the brain to be affected by AD neurodegeneration. Utilizing NanoString nCounter analysis, we demonstrate here the transcriptional downregulation of several GABA signaling components in the post-mortem human middle temporal gyrus (MTG) in AD, including the GABAA receptor α1, α2, α3, α5, β1, β2, β3, δ, γ2, γ3, and θ subunits and the GABAB receptor 2 (GABABR2) subunit. In addition to this, we note the transcriptional upregulation of the betaine-GABA transporter (BGT1) and GABA transporter 2 (GAT2), and the downregulation of the 67 kDa isoform of glutamate decarboxylase (GAD67), the primary GABA synthesizing enzyme. The functional consequences of these changes require further investigation, but such alterations may underlie disruptions to the E/I balance that are believed to contribute to cognitive decline in AD.
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Gupta A, Bhattacharya G, Balaram K, Tampi D, Tampi RR. Benzodiazepine use among older adults. Neurodegener Dis Manag 2020; 11:5-8. [PMID: 33172334 DOI: 10.2217/nmt-2020-0056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Aarti Gupta
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Gargi Bhattacharya
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University, Indiana 47906, USA
| | - Kripa Balaram
- Department of Psychiatry, MetroHealth, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA
| | - Deena Tampi
- Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Behavioral Health Advisory Group, Princeton, NJ 08542, USA
| | - Rajesh R Tampi
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Akron, OH 44307, USA.,Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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Harris ML, Titler MG, Struble LM. Acupuncture and Acupressure for Dementia Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms: A Scoping Review. West J Nurs Res 2020; 42:867-880. [PMID: 31802723 PMCID: PMC7272277 DOI: 10.1177/0193945919890552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Due to the dangers associated with psychotropic medications, there is an urgent need for non-pharmacologic therapies to treat behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). Acupuncture and acupressure are safe and well-tolerated non-pharmacologic therapies for this population, but currently no review has explored acutherapy for management of distressing dementia symptoms. This review synthesizes research on acupuncture and acupressure for BPSD. Upon searching five databases, 15 studies met inclusion/exclusion criteria. Nine examined acupressure, six acupuncture, and eight were randomized controlled trials. The percent of studies demonstrating statistically significant improvements in symptoms were: activities of daily living (ADLs; 75%), agitation (100%), anxiety (67%), depression (100%), mood (100%), neuropsychological disturbances (67%), and sleep disturbances (100%). Variations in study design, intervention procedures, and outcomes limit interpretations about effectiveness. It is recommended that further research be done to examine the efficacy of these therapies and promote generalizability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marita G Titler
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Laura M Struble
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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35
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Maclagan LC, Maxwell CJ, Harris DA, Campitelli MA, Diong C, Lapane KL, Hogan DB, Rochon P, Herrmann N, Bronskill SE. Sex Differences in Antipsychotic and Benzodiazepine Prescribing Patterns: A Cohort Study of Newly Admitted Nursing Home Residents with Dementia in Ontario, Canada. Drugs Aging 2020; 37:817-827. [PMID: 32978758 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-020-00799-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In nursing homes, residents with dementia frequently receive potentially inappropriate medications that are associated with an increased risk of adverse events. Despite known sex differences in clinical presentation and sociodemographic characteristics among persons with dementia, few studies have examined sex differences in patterns and predictors of potentially inappropriate medication use. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to examine sex differences in the patterns of antipsychotic and benzodiazepine use in the 180 days following admission to a nursing home, estimate clinical and sociodemographic predictors of antipsychotic and benzodiazepine use in male and female residents, and explore the effects of modification by sex on the predictors of using these drug therapies. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 35,169 adults aged 66 years and older with dementia who were newly admitted to nursing homes in Ontario, Canada between 2011 and 2014. Health administrative databases were linked to detailed clinical assessment data collected using the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI-MDS 2.0). Cox proportional hazards models were adjusted for clinical and sociodemographic covariates to estimate the rate of antipsychotic and benzodiazepine initiation and discontinuation in the 180 days following nursing home admission in the total sample and stratified by sex. Sex-covariate interaction terms were used to assess whether sex modified the association between covariates and the rate of drug therapy initiation or discontinuation following nursing home entry. RESULTS Across 638 nursing homes, our analytical sample included 22,847 females and 12,322 males. At admission, male residents were more likely to be prevalent antipsychotic users than female residents (33.8% vs 28.3%; p < 0.001), and female residents were more likely to be prevalent benzodiazepine users than male residents (17.2% vs 15.3%, p < 0.001). In adjusted models, female residents were less likely to initiate an antipsychotic after admission (hazard ratio [HR] 0.79, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.73-0.86); however, no sex difference was observed in the rate of benzodiazepine initiation (HR 1.04, 95% CI 0.96-1.12). Female residents were less likely than males to discontinue antipsychotics (HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.81-0.98) and benzodiazepines (HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.75-0.89). Sex modified the association between some covariates and the rate of changes in drug use (e.g., widowed males exhibited an increased rate of antipsychotic discontinuation (p-interaction = 0.03) compared with married males), but these associations were not statistically significant among females. Sex did not modify the effect of frailty on the rates of initiation and discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS Males and females with dementia differed in their exposure to antipsychotics and benzodiazepines at nursing home admission and their patterns of use following admission. A greater understanding of factors driving sex differences in potentially inappropriate medication use may help tailor interventions to reduce exposure in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Colleen J Maxwell
- ICES, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada.,School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel A Harris
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Kate L Lapane
- University of Massachusetts School of Medicine, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - David B Hogan
- Divison of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Paula Rochon
- ICES, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nathan Herrmann
- Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Susan E Bronskill
- ICES, Toronto, ON, M4N 3M5, Canada. .,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Benzodiazepine exposure in subjects with incident Alzheimer's disease and related syndromes in France: a longitudinal study 2011-2017. Int Clin Psychopharmacol 2020; 35:270-278. [PMID: 32324610 DOI: 10.1097/yic.0000000000000312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Benzodiazepines are commonly used for behavioral and psychiatric symptoms of dementia, despite their numerous adverse effects and the lack of evidence regarding their efficacy in this context. We studied longitudinal benzodiazepines exposure in incident cases of Alzheimer's disease and related syndromes (ADRS) in France. We used a cohort of incident ADRS patients identified in 2012 within the national health data system. Benzodiazepines exposure was measured 1 year before, to 5 years after ADRS identification. Quarterly benzodiazepines prevalence and incidence were computed. We identified factors associated with long half-life benzodiazepines initiation. A total of 106 508 subjects were included. Quarterly benzodiazepines prevalence was stable (around 25%) but we saw an important decrease in long half-life benzodiazepines compensated by an increase in short half-life benzodiazepines. In most benzodiazepine initiations, the first episode lasted less than 3 months. Factors associated with initiating a long half-life benzodiazepine were young age, male gender, no registration with ADRS as a long-term disease, having consulted an ADRS specialist, antipsychotic reimbursement before the index date, no admission in nursing home. Prevalence of benzodiazepines use remains high in subjects with ADRS despite guidelines for their avoidance. However, indicators regarding benzodiazepine initiations (duration, benzodiazepine type) suggest some caution in their use.
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Bhardwaj N, Cecchetti AA, Murughiyan U, Neitch S. Analysis of Benzodiazepine Prescription Practices in Elderly Appalachians with Dementia via the Appalachian Informatics Platform: Longitudinal Study. JMIR Med Inform 2020; 8:e18389. [PMID: 32749226 PMCID: PMC7435704 DOI: 10.2196/18389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caring for the growing dementia population with complex health care needs in West Virginia has been challenging due to its large, sizably rural-dwelling geriatric population and limited resource availability. OBJECTIVE This paper aims to illustrate the application of an informatics platform to drive dementia research and quality care through a preliminary study of benzodiazepine (BZD) prescription patterns and its effects on health care use by geriatric patients. METHODS The Maier Institute Data Mart, which contains clinical and billing data on patients aged 65 years and older (N=98,970) seen within our clinics and hospital, was created. Relevant variables were analyzed to identify BZD prescription patterns and calculate related charges and emergency department (ED) use. RESULTS Nearly one-third (4346/13,910, 31.24%) of patients with dementia received at least one BZD prescription, 20% more than those without dementia. More women than men received at least one BZD prescription. On average, patients with dementia and at least one BZD prescription sustained higher charges and visited the ED more often than those without one. CONCLUSIONS The Appalachian Informatics Platform has the potential to enhance dementia care and research through a deeper understanding of dementia, data enrichment, risk identification, and care gap analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niharika Bhardwaj
- Department of Clinical and Translational Science, Joan C Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, United States
| | - Alfred A Cecchetti
- Department of Clinical and Translational Science, Joan C Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, United States
| | - Usha Murughiyan
- Department of Clinical and Translational Science, Joan C Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, United States
| | - Shirley Neitch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Joan C Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, United States
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Tien SC, Chan HY, Hsu CC. The factors associated with inappropriate prescription patterns of benzodiazepines and related drugs among patients with dementia. Psychogeriatrics 2020; 20:447-457. [PMID: 32032470 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.12527] [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: 10/05/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been emphasised that benzodiazepines and related drugs (BZDRs) should be used cautiously in people with dementia. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with inappropriate prescription patterns of BZDRs including polypharmacy, long-term treatment and high doses among patients with dementia taking BZDRs. METHODS This was a retrospective chart review study of patients with dementia who were treated at the study hospital. The date that the patient was issued a catastrophic illness certificate from the National Health Insurance Administration was used as the index date. Medical records of the 2-year period after the index date were reviewed. RESULTS A total of 308 patients with dementia were included in this study. Among them, 151 (49.0%) received at least one prescription of BZDRs. After adjusting for covariates, psychiatric comorbidities (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 4.74, 95% CI = 1.75-12.81), history of past suicidal behaviour (aOR = 4.25, 95% CI = 1.40-12.88) and long-term treatment with BZDRs (aOR = 3.38, 95% CI = 1.11-10.27) were associated with polypharmacy of BZDRs. Age (aOR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.0-1.11) and polypharmacy (aOR = 3.57, 95% CI = 1.23-10.32) were associated with long-term treatment. Living with family (aOR = 3.33, 95% CI = 1.32-9.79) and fewer psychiatric admissions to the study hospital (aOR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.36-0.86) were associated with treatment with high doses of BZDRs. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with BZDRs is prevalent in patients with dementia. Inappropriate prescription patterns of BZDRs are not uncommon in these patients and may be interlinked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin-Chiao Tien
- Department of Psychiatry, Taoyuan Psychiatric Centre, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Yu Chan
- Department of Psychiatry, Taoyuan Psychiatric Centre, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and School of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Chi Hsu
- Department of Psychiatry, Taoyuan Psychiatric Centre, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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Forgerini M, Herdeiro MT, Galduróz JCF, Mastroianni PDC. Risk factors associated with drug therapy among elderly people with Alzheimer's disease: a cross-sectional study. SAO PAULO MED J 2020; 138:216-218. [PMID: 32578741 PMCID: PMC9671228 DOI: 10.1590/1516-3180.2019.0461.r2.19022020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improving knowledge and establishing strategies and policies for better patient safety are worldwide priorities. OBJECTIVE To evaluate drug safety among elderly people with Alzheimer's disease (AD). DESIGN AND SETTING Cross-sectional study among elderly people within the National AD Assistance Protocol (PCDTDA/MS) who were living in the municipality of Araraquara, Brazil, in 2017. METHODS Through interviews conducted with relatives/caregivers of elderly people with diagnoses of AD, the following variables were evaluated: comorbidities, drug therapy used, use of potentially inappropriate medications for the elderly (PIMs), presence of potentially inappropriate interactions (PIIs) and medication regimen complexity index. Factors associated with AD severity were also evaluated. Multivariate and simple logistic regressions were applied. RESULTS 143 elderly people enrolled in PCDTDA/MS were analyzed. The majority were women (67.1%); assisted only through the public healthcare system (75.5%); polymedicated (57.4%); using at least one PIM (63.6%); presenting at least one PII (63.6%); and under drug therapy of low to medium complexity (92.2%). No semi-annual monitoring of the effectiveness of PCDTDA/MS drugs was identified. The proportion using AD drug therapy at daily doses differing from those recommended by the World Health Organization was 75.6%. However, these doses were not associated with drug risk. CONCLUSION The data from this study raise the hypothesis that use of polypharmacy might show a correlation with severity of AD. The drug safety risk may be associated with comorbidities of the metabolic syndrome, anxiety and off-label use of PIMs, such as risperidone and quetiapine, and benzodiazepines (i.e. clonazepam and flunitrazepam).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Forgerini
- Pharmacist and Doctoral Student, Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara (SP), Brazil.
| | - Maria Teresa Herdeiro
- PhD. Pharmacist and Professor, Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade de Aveiro, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - José Carlos Fernandes Galduróz
- PhD. Adjunct Professor, Department of Psychobiology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil.
| | - Patrícia de Carvalho Mastroianni
- PhD. Pharmacist and Adjunct Professor, Department of Drugs and Medicines, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara (SP), Brazil.
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Dyer AH, Murphy C, Lawlor B, Kennelly SP, Lawlor B, Segurado R, Kennelly S, Olde Rikkert MG, Howard R, Pasquier F, Börjesson-Hanson A, Tsolaki M, Lucca U, Molloy DW, Coen R, Riepe MW, Kálmán J, Kenny RA, Cregg F, O'Dwyer S, Walsh C, Adams J, Banzi R, Breuilh L, Daly L, Hendrix S, Aisen P, Gaynor S, Sheikhi A, Taekema DG, Verhey FR, Nemni R, Nobili F, Franceschi M, Frisoni G, Zanetti O, Konsta A, Anastasios O, Nenopoulou S, Tsolaki-Tagaraki F, Pakaski M, Dereeper O, Sayette VDL, Sénéchal O, Lavenu I, Devendeville A, Calais G, Crawford F, Mullan M, Aalten P, Berglund MA, Claassen JA, De Heus RA, De Jong DL, Godefroy O, Hutchinson S, Ioannou A, Jonsson M, Kent A, Kern J, Nemtsas P, Panidou MK, Abdullah L, Paris D, Santoso AM, van Spijker GJ, Spiliotou M, Thomoglou G, Wallin A. Cognitive Outcomes of Long-term Benzodiazepine and Related Drug (BDZR) Use in People Living With Mild to Moderate Alzheimer's Disease: Results From NILVAD. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2020; 21:194-200. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2019.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Chan HY, Tien SC, Chen JJ. A retrospective study of chart review for the use of benzodiazepines and related drugs among patients with dementia. TAIWANESE JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/tpsy.tpsy_20_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Phan SV, Osae S, Morgan JC, Inyang M, Fagan SC. Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Dementia: Considerations for Pharmacotherapy in the USA. Drugs R D 2019; 19:93-115. [PMID: 31098864 PMCID: PMC6544588 DOI: 10.1007/s40268-019-0272-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Dementia affects all domains of cognition. The relentless progression of the disease after diagnosis is associated with a 98% incidence of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) at some point in the disease, including depression, psychosis, agitation, aggression, apathy, sleep disturbances, and disinhibition. These symptoms can be severe and lead to excess morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this article was to describe current literature on the medication management of NPS of dementia and highlight approaches to and concerns about the pharmacological treatment of NPS in the USA. Guidelines and expert opinion favor nonpharmacologic management of NPS as first-line management. Unfortunately, lack of adequate caregiver training and a high failure rate eventually result in the use of psychotropic agents in patients with dementia. Various psychotropic medications have been studied, although how they should be used in the management of NPS remains unclear. A systematic approach to evaluation, treatment, and monitoring, along with careful documentation and evidenced-based agent and dose selection, is likely to reduce risk and improve patient outcomes. Considerations should be given to the NPS presentation, including type, frequency, and severity, when weighing the risks and benefits of initiating, continuing, or discontinuing psychotropic management. Use of antidepressants, sedative/hypnotics, antipsychotics, and antiepileptic agents should include a clear and documented analysis of risk and benefit in a given patient with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie V Phan
- Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Southwest Georgia Clinical Campus, Albany, GA, USA.
| | - Sharmon Osae
- Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Southwest Georgia Clinical Campus, Albany, GA, USA
| | - John C Morgan
- Memory Disorders Program, Department of Neurology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Mfon Inyang
- Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Albany, GA, USA
| | - Susan C Fagan
- Memory Disorders Program, Department of Neurology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.,Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA.,Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA
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Eshetie TC, Nguyen TA, Gillam MH, Kalisch Ellett LM. Potentially inappropriate prescribing in people with dementia: An Australian population-based study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2019; 34:1498-1505. [PMID: 31173395 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the prevalence of potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP) using the Screening Tool of Older Person's Prescriptions (STOPP) criteria in people with dementia compared with people without dementia. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme 10% sample of pharmacy claims. People with dementia were defined as those dispensed a medicine for dementia (cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, or risperidone for behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia) between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2015, aged 65 years or older at 1 January 2016 and alive at the end of 2016. An age- and gender-matched comparison cohort of people not dispensed medicines for dementia was identified. PIP prevalence was determined between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2016. RESULTS In total, 8280 people dispensed medicines for dementia and 41 400 comparisons not dispensed medicines for dementia were included: 63% were female and the median age was 82 years. PIP prevalence was 79% among people with dementia compared with 70% among the comparison group (P < .0001). Use of anticholinergics, long-term use of high-dose proton pump inhibitors, and use of benzodiazepines were the most common instances of PIP in people with dementia. After adjustments for age, gender, comorbidity, and number of prescribers, people with dementia were more likely to be exposed to PIP than comparisons (adjusted OR 1.44, 95% CI, 1.35-1.53, P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS PIP was more common in people dispensed medicines for dementia than comparisons. These results highlight the need for effective interventions to optimize prescribing in people with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tesfahun C Eshetie
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Tuan A Nguyen
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Marianne H Gillam
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Lisa M Kalisch Ellett
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Personalize protocols when deprescribing psychotropics used to manage behavioural changes in individuals with dementia. DRUGS & THERAPY PERSPECTIVES 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40267-019-00655-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Sepassi A, Watanabe JH. Emergency Department Visits for Psychotropic-Related Adverse Drug Events in Older Adults With Alzheimer Disease, 2013-2014. Ann Pharmacother 2019; 53:1173-1183. [PMID: 31342766 DOI: 10.1177/1060028019866927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: More than 1.3 million emergency department visits have been associated with adverse drug events (ADEs) in older adults. Increasing Alzheimer's disease (AD) prevalence in the geriatric population poses an additive risk of ADEs because of the array of psychotropic medications prescribed for AD patients. Scant research has been conducted at a nationwide level on psychotropic-related ADEs in this population. Objective: This study aimed to determine the incidence and economic burden of psychotropic ADEs in the geriatric AD population compared with the non-AD geriatric population. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of geriatric AD patients who visited the ED in 2013 with a psychotropic-related ADE to determine the incidence and resource utilization of these events. The relationship between presence of AD and an ADE was analyzed using multiple logistic regression. Results: There were 427 969 Alzheimer's ED visits compared with 20 492 554 ED visits without. Of the AD cases, 1.04% were associated with at least 1 adverse event. AD cases more frequently were admitted as inpatients (64.90% vs 34.92%, P < 0.01). Common drug classes associated with AD-related ADEs were benzodiazepines, antipsychotics, and autonomic nervous system-affecting agents (adrenergic agonists, antimuscarinic agents, anticholinergic agents). There was a significantly higher likelihood for Alzheimer's cases to experience any psychotropic-related adverse event (OR = 1.66; 95% CI = 1.20, 1.82). Conclusion and Relevance: Alzheimer's patients more frequently experienced psychotropic-related adverse events and related adverse outcomes than older adults without Alzheimer's. Application of these findings should be implemented in protocol development to reduce future psychotropic-related adverse outcomes for this population.
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Eshetie TC, Nguyen TA, Gillam MH, Kalisch Ellett LM. Potentially inappropriate prescribing before and after initiation of medicines for dementia: An Australian population-based study. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19:654-659. [PMID: 31074090 DOI: 10.1111/ggi.13686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the prevalence of potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP), as defined by the internationally validated Screening Tool of Older Person's Prescriptions (STOPP) criteria, in 12 months before and after initiation of medicines for dementia. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was carried out involving people with their first claim for dispensing of medicines for dementia (cholinesterase inhibitor or memantine) between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2015, aged ≥65 years at 1 January 2016 and alive at the end of 2016. The index date was defined as the date of first supply of medicines for dementia. PIP was identified using the Screening Tool of Older Person's Prescriptions criteria, and PIP prevalence was compared in the 12 months pre- and post-index date. The McNemar's test was used to test differences in the prevalence of PIP between the two time periods. RESULTS The cohort included 1176 patients: 60% were women and the median age was 80 years. The overall PIP prevalence was 85% in the 12 months pre-initiation of medicines for dementia compared with 89% in the 12 months post-initiation (P < 0.0001). The median number of Screening Tool of Older Person's Prescriptions criteria was two (interquartile range 1-4) in the 12 months pre-initiation of medicines for dementia, increasing to three (range 2-4) in the 12 months post-initiation. CONCLUSIONS PIP was common in people dispensed medicines for dementia, with a significant increase in prevalence post-initiation of medicines for dementia compared with pre-initiation. These results highlight the need for targeted interventions to minimize inappropriate use of medicines in people with dementia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 654-659.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tesfahun C Eshetie
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Tuan A Nguyen
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Marianne H Gillam
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Lisa M Kalisch Ellett
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Genario R, Giacomini AC, Demin KA, dos Santos BE, Marchiori NI, Volgin AD, Bashirzade A, Amstislavskaya TG, de Abreu MS, Kalueff AV. The evolutionarily conserved role of melatonin in CNS disorders and behavioral regulation: Translational lessons from zebrafish. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 99:117-127. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Abstract
Purpose of Review Agitation is common among older adults with dementia; its origin may be multi-factorial, and it is often difficult to treat. In this paper, we summarize current knowledge and offer considerations on pharmacologic management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). Recent Findings We reviewed human studies published from 2013 to 2018 evaluating pharmacologic management of BPSD manifestations including depressive symptoms, mania, psychosis, and other BPSD, as well as severe agitation without determination of underlying cause. After non-pharmacological management is exhausted, the choice of pharmacological options depends on patient comorbidities, specific BPSD presentation, and patient tolerance of medications. Summary Depending on manifestations of BPSD, low- to moderate-quality evidence supports the use of anti-depressants, anti-psychotics, or anti-epileptics in conjunction with cholinesterase inhibitors. The current evidence base needs to be augmented with future research that focuses on real-world medication use alongside head-to-head evaluation of medication effectiveness rather than comparison to placebo.
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Approaches to Deprescribing Psychotropic Medications for Changed Behaviours in Long-Term Care Residents Living with Dementia. Drugs Aging 2018; 36:125-136. [DOI: 10.1007/s40266-018-0623-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Mathys M. Pharmacologic management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of major neurocognitive disorder. Ment Health Clin 2018; 8:284-293. [PMID: 30397570 PMCID: PMC6213893 DOI: 10.9740/mhc.2018.11.284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) occur in approximately 80% of patients who receive a diagnosis of major neurocognitive disorder. Nonpharmacologic strategies are the first-line treatment for BPSD. However, psychotropic medications are often necessary when nonpharmacologic methods are not effective in treating symptoms that are distressing or are causing behaviors that are dangerous to the patient or the patient's caregivers. The article provides a review of evidence-based recommendations for the use of antipsychotics, cognitive enhancers, and serotonin reuptake inhibitors for the treatment of BPSD. Different pharmacologic approaches are demonstrated through 2 patient cases in which nonpharmacologic management was not effective. The severity of BPSD must be weighed against the risks and benefits of pharmacologic intervention in order to implement an optimal medication regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Mathys
- (Corresponding author) Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice, Clinical Pharmacy Specialist-Mental Health, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Dallas, Texas,
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