Haldol May Increase Risk of Death for Dementia Patients

Haldol (haloperidol) may raise the risk of death in elderly dementia patients when compared to other antipsychotic drugs, a new study suggests.

According to HealthDay News, a group of researchers from Harvard Medical School examined four years worth of data of more than 75,000 nursing homeresidents who were age 65 or older. The study compared the risk of death for residents while taking different antipsychotics, such as Haldol, Seroquel(quetiapine), and risperidone.

The researchers found that the residents who took Haldol had a doubled risk of death compared to those who took risperidone. Those who took Seroquel had a lower risk of death.

The study, published in the British Medical Journal, also found that various types of antipsychotic drugs have varying risks of death in elderly patients, and that medical professionals “may want to consider this evidence when evaluating ... the best approach to treatment of behavioral problems.”

If you or a loved one has been harmed by dangerous drug, contact Sokolove Law for a free legal consultation and to find out if you have grounds to pursue legal action.

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