Risks of Psychotropic Use in Alzheimer's Disease

Sep 8, 2026 · Published in: Current Alzheimer Research

Background Information

Psychotropic polypharmacy poses significant risks in Alzheimer's disease.

Psychotropic polypharmacy is prevalent in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and can lead to adverse outcomes, making safe prescribing guidelines crucial. The review identifies anticholinergic burden and pharmacodynamic interactions, emphasizing SSRI and benzodiazepine risks in cognitive decline. The narrative review urges minimizing inappropriate psychotropic use in AD per Beers Criteria, stressing non-drug interventions and risk-benefit assessments. Limit psychotropic medications in Alzheimer's disease to reduce adverse outcomes.

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Authors: Gou KJ, Chen Y, Sheng Z, Yu W, Wang L, Lü Y

Citation: Gou KJ, Chen Y, Sheng Z, et al. Psychotropic Polypharmacy in Alzheimer's Disease: A Potentially Inappropriate Medication Perspective in Older Adults. Current Alzheimer research. 2026. doi:10.2174/0115672050502495260812063626

Article Links: PubMed · Journal / DOI

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