Antipsychotic Medications Linked to Cardiovascular Deaths in the Elderly

Study Suggests Need for FDA Health Advisory

A new study has found that conventional, first-generation antipsychotic medications used to treat elderly patients increases their risk of death from cardiovascular or respiratory diseases, compared to second generation, atypical antipsychotics.

In 2005, the FDA issued a public health advisory after studies suggested second-generation antipsychotics increased the risk of death by 60 percent in elderly patients with dementia. However, this did not extend to first-generation antipsychotics. The new study provides additional evidence of the risks associated with first-generation agents for elderly patients.

Elderly patients with mental health issues are often prescribed antipsychotic medications as treatment. And, Medicare patients in nursing homes are one group of elderly that are frequently prescribed these medications.

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Published on Aug-25-08