Escitalopram Treatment for BPSD in Alzheimer's Disease in Comparison to Risperidone

Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) as agitation or psychosis are among the most distressing manifestations of dementia. The evidence-based management of these symptoms includes the search for treatable physical and environmental precipitants, support and psychoeducation for primary caregivers and psychosocial interventions. Nevertheless, pharmacotherapy is frequently used and especially in institutional settings. Current guidelines recommend the use of second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs). Nonetheless, there are concerns regarding both their safety and effectiveness in patients with dementia. Recent research has resulted in a 'black-box" warning concerning the safety of using SGAs for BPSD. Sparse and inconclusive evidence support the use of other psychoactive agents such as SSRI antidepressants or cognitive enhancers. In two published randomized controlled trials, citalopram was more efficacious than placebo and as efficacious as, but better tolerated than perphenazine or risperidone in patients with dementia hospitalized for the treatment of agitation or psychosis. Thus, with proven efficacy and a beneficial safety profile the evaluation of the use of escitalopram for BPSD is warranted. A 6-week parallel groups, randomized, controlled trial in patients with dementia hospitalized because of behavioral symptoms will be conducted at the Abarbanel MHC. Participants will be consecutively recruited on an inpatient unit. Randomization will be based on a table of random numbers held centrally by an uninvolved physician. The study will be of a "double-blind" design. All medications in identical packaging will be distributed to the ward from a central pharmacy.