David_2011_Rev.Prat_61_939

Behavioural and psychological symptoms (BPSD) are now known to be frequently associated to cognitive and functional decline in Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Recommendations for the management of BPSD have been proposed. Non-pharmacological interventions should be the first-line treatment. Anti-dementia agents (cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine) and psychotropic drugs (antipsychotics, antidepressants and anticonvulsivants) could be associated to non-pharmacological interventions only in case of limited response with non pharmacologic approaches. Low-dose antipsychotics should only be prescribed for limited periods of time, in case of psychotic and/or aggressive refractory symptoms.