Effects of Risperidone and Haldol for the treatment of psychotic and aggressive symptoms in nursing home residents with Alzheimer's disease with respect to the patient's quality of life after treatment

Principal Investigator: Ira Katz
Co-Principal Investigator: Kimberly Van Haitsma
Period: November 1999 - October 2001
Funded by: Subcontract with the University of Pennsylvania

Abstract: This double blind drug study examined positive aspects of quality of life outcomes of treatment, as well as its effects on negative aspects of quality of life. The hypothesis was that the efficacy of Risperidone would be greater or equal to Haloperidol with respect to the psychotic or behavioral symptoms. We further hypothesized that the Risperidone group would be greater than the Haloperidol group with respect to positive affect, motivational, and social functioning after treatment. Twelve subjects with probable or possible AD (NINCDS-ADRDA criteria) with psychotic and/or non-cognitive behavioral symptoms (agitation or aggression) were recruited. Entry criteria were defined as a Behave-AD score of 8 or more; at least 4 on the FAST; less than or equal to 23 on the MMSE; and residing in the NH at least 1 month.