Stroke risk with anti-psychotic
29 August 2008
 Dementia patients on anti-psychotics are at a higher risk of having a stroke than previously thought, according to new research. A study published by the British Medical Association (BMA) has said that all forms of anti-psychotic medication boosts the chances a patient may suffer a stroke.The drugs, which are usually used to treat severe mental health issues such as Schizophrenia and psychosis, are often used to treat symptoms of dementia.Neil Hunt, from the Alzheimer's Society, told the BBC: "The over-prescription of antipsychotics is a serious breach of human rights, these drugs should only be a last resort.""The forthcoming National Dementia Strategy (NDS) is a crucial opportunity to stop this dangerous over-prescribing," he added.Included in the government's NDS is the aim to raise awareness of the condition, allow for early diagnosis so preventative treatment can be administered and improvement in the quality of care for people suffering from the disease.  © Adfero Ltd
© 2008 Adfero Ltd. All rights reserved. Any views and opinions expressed in news articles are not those of Craegmoor Limited and its associated companies. News supplied by Adfero DirectNews.
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