Neuroleptics in dementia

Aims and method We surveyed the prescription of neuroleptic drugs in patients with a diagnosis of dementia discharged from a general psychiatric hospital over two consecutive years. The surveys looked at documentation of information around prescribing and communication to primary care teams. Our aim was to help to minimise the potential contribution of hospital practice to unnecessary or continuing unreviewed neuroleptic prescription in the community. Results The first survey led to the adoption of new clinical standards in the Department of Old Age Psychiatry. The second survey found improvements in all surveyed parameters. Clinical implications Clear communication of information around prescribing and follow-up arrangements could help to reduce inappropriate community prescription of neuroleptics in this vulnerable group of patients.