Government research into better dementia drugs
Published on 24 May 2012 10:30 AM
Millions of pounds is set to be pumped into research for new dementia treatments by the government to avoid the use of 'chemical cosh' drugs in future.
It has been suggested that as many as 1,800 people die prematurely every year because strokes or other medical complications are caused by anti-psychotic drugs, which are intended to calm residents in care homes among others.
As a result, a new £30 million research programme will be launched to explore other ways of managing psychological and behavioural symptoms.
Care Services Minister Paul Burstow thinks it will make 'a massive difference' to dementia patients and their carers.
'Far too many people with dementia are robbed of part of their lives because they are needlessly given anti-psychotics,' he said.
'By taking people off these drugs we're turning the lights back on for thousands so they can live a more meaningful life.'
David Cameron is expected to announce the investment at a summit with dementia specialists on Thursday and there will also be funds to research methods of treating Alzheimer's patients who cannot describe their symptoms.
Copyright Press Association 2012