Sleep disturbances may result from disordered circadian rhythm and disorientation and may be managed with a short-acting benzodiazepines or chloral hydrate. As an alternative, zolpidem may be useful. Antihistamines are contraindicated because of their high anticholinergic activity. 1 SDAT is a devastating disease, not only for the patient, but for family members and caregivers as well. The management of the psychiatric and behavioral problems of SDAT patients is extremely important.
Appropriate agents require careful selection to assure improvement in the patients' behaviors.
The ultimate objective in treating the psychiatric complications of SDAT is to improve the quality of life of the patient and of the caregiver. Perhaps some of the eminent research will provide more effective treatments for the cognitive as well as behavioral symptoms of this tragic disease. Phyllis M. Parks-Veal, Pharm. 31061 References 1. Higbee M. Update in Alzheimer' disease.