The Efficacy of Atypical Antipsychotics on Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia

Objective: The purpose of this meta-analysis is to identify if one atypical antipsychotic (risperidone, aripiprazole, olanzapine, clozapine, quetiapine) is more effective in treating behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). The secondary aim is to identify a difference in dosage between the atypical antipsychotics when used to treat BPSD. Methods: Articles regarding atypical antipsychotics and BPSD were located on the Arizona State University Library website and Google Scholar. A total of 13 studies were included in analyses. The mean difference of the measurement of BPSD from baseline to end of study were extracted from the studies, converted to z-scores using standard error, and the average was found for each medication and placebo groups. Data on dosage was also collected and the total mg of medication for an average participant was calculated based on type of medication. Two ANOVAs were conducted: one to identify a significant difference between the average effect of each medication on BPSD and another to identify a significant difference between the level of dosage given on average for each medication. Results: These analyses indicated that there was no significant difference between individual atypical antipsychotics or placebo (F(5,19) = 0.254, p = 0.932). There was a significant difference in level of dosage with quetiapine having a significantly higher dosage on average than every other medication (F(4,12) = 18.49, p = 0.0000456). Conclusions: There is a lack of evidence that supports the use of atypical antipsychotics for the treatment of BPSD, however, future research that focuses on lower doses of these medications and interactions with psychotherapy may prove beneficial.