Report: Nursing Homes Overuse Risky Drugs

A new report from Consumer Reports found that oftentimes nursing homes' use of antipsychotics to treat aggression, agitation or hallucinations in residents with dementia is unwarranted. The report also noted that the risks posed by antipsychotics, such as diabetes, weight gain, movement disorders (sometimes permanent), pneumonia, sudden cardiac arrest and stroke, frequently outweigh the potential benefits of their use.

Experts who contributed to the report suggested trying behavior interventions before considering the use of medication - for example, music therapy, massage therapy, distraction techniques and allowing residents to make frequent calls to friends and family.

The report is part of a Consumer Reports Health Best Buy Drugs ongoing investigation into medication that is prescribed "off-label." There are no FDA-approved drugs to treat dementia or Alzheimer's disease, but doctors can legally prescribe any drug for reasons they deem appropriate.

To learn more, click here.