Drug Aging
-
Review Comparative Study
Diagnosis and treatment of psychotic symptoms in elderly patients.
The diagnosis and treatment of psychotic symptoms in elderly patients requires more than extrapolation from studies of similar symptoms in the adult population. In comparison with early-onset psychosis, late-onset psychosis is characterised by differences in both its risk factors and typical signs and symptoms. Diagnosis may include psychotic disorders, mood disorders, delusional disorder, dementia or delirium. ⋯ In addition, the newer atypical antipsychotics such as clozapine have shown early promise. It is important to consider the higher incidence of adverse effects and tardive dyskinesia in the elderly when choosing a drug and its dosage. Consideration of psychosocial factors completes the appropriate management of psychotic symptoms in older patients.