Mom has mild but daily hallucinations and delusions. Dr prescribed Risperdal but I'm concerned with side effects. She uses Ativan as needed, but looking for alternative to try before going into antipsychotic meds. Any suggestions?
Risperdal or Risperidone, is a commonly used atypical antipsychotic for managing agitation and psychotic symptoms in people with dementia. It seems to be the only approved anti-psychotics for this use. Other anti-psychotics available are Olanzapine, Quetiapine and Aripiprazole. However, they have more side effects and also they seem less effective. The most frequent side effects are: over-sedation, incoordination, the development of the metabolic syndrome and diabetes. You have to be aware that all antipsychotic drugs also shorten the life expectancy of old people. They also predispose the developing of strokes and infections. Because of these unwanted side effects, the use of anti-psychotics in the elderly is limited to emergencies only and for no longer than a few weeks at a time. Other drugs commonly used for people with dementia are the minor tranquilizers Ativan, Xanax and Valium. They only relieve anxiety and do nothing to stop hallucinations and delusions. The presence of psychotic symptoms in a demented person, bothers more the caregivers than the patient. Psychotic symptoms do not make the dementia worse, Yet, antipsychotics can make them uncoordinated, more confused and forgetful.
Unfortunately, Big Pharma (and its distributors??) have plastered tv with ads for various meds, inferring and/or suggesting that people often have a choice that they can make by asking their medical providers about and/or to prescribe certain drugs. They treat meds like interchangeable consumer goods, and do a massive disservice to both the medical and patient communities.
Follow Alva's advice; ask one of your mother's doctors.
You should consider discussing this with the doctor who treats your Mom if you are her POA. A Forum is great for commiseration with others who have gone through some things you have, and you may get some members who have had success with this or that medication, but really the doctor is the one who knows your Mom, her history, her diagnosis the best, and knows the best options for her. I sure do wish you luck and hope you find something that works better for Mom.
Follow Alva's advice; ask one of your mother's doctors.