People with learning disabilities and dementia: pharmacotherapeutic considerations
To enhance your understanding of dementia in people with learning disabilities, including the increased risk of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease in people with Down’s syndrome
To recognise pharmacological treatments used for the management of dementia and the importance of medicine dose adjustments and monitoring of side effects in people with learning disabilities
To stay informed about new and emerging dementia medicines
People with learning disabilities, particularly those with Down’s syndrome, are at increased risk of developing dementia, often at a younger age than the general population. Although there is no cure for dementia, treatment can include dementia medicines that aim to alleviate the associated symptoms and delay progression of the disease. The dementia medicine selected depends on the type and stage of the condition, contraindications and potential drug interactions with those prescribed for comorbid health conditions. This article provides an overview of dementia in people with learning disabilities and explores the use of dementia medicines in this population, including the implications of comorbidities and polypharmacy in terms of dose titration and risk of side effects. The authors also discuss new and emerging dementia medicines.
