Keywords

adverse effects, dementia, drug therapy, geriatrics, rehabilitation

 

Authors

  1. Hardesty, Jennifer L. PharmD, FASCP

Abstract

Pharmacologic agents used for dementia and its associated symptoms are effective for many patients; however, each medication is capable of causing a variety of adverse effects that may hinder the individual from reaching physical goals. Adverse drug events can manifest physically as gait disturbances or tremors, whereas cognitive effects may present as sedation or confusion. Therapists and rehabilitation specialists are in optimal positions to recognize sometimes subtle physical and cognitive changes resulting from a drug-related adverse event. Early identification of adverse events allows the healthcare team to promptly address these issues, so patients may progress with the best treatment possible.