Risperidone for behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia

The atypical antipsychotic risperidone ['Risperdal'] improves behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in elderly patients, according to several studies presented at the XII World Congress of Psychiatry [Yokohama, Japan; August 2002]. Treatment with low doses of risperidone was effective and well tolerated in patients in both the outpatient and hospital settings, including those patients switching from other antipsychotics. Furthermore, efficacy was demonstrated in patients with mixed or vascular dementia in addition to those with Alzheimer's disease.