Psychiatric Drugs Overused In Nursing Homes - Authorities Concerned

According to government inspectors from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), strong psychiatric medications are often prescribed to individuals with dementia in nursing homes, but for off-label reasons. In addition, families of dementia patients in nursing homes should be vigilant about the care they receive. Drugs, such as Zyprexa and Seroquel, designed to treat individuals with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, are being used to sedate residents with dementia.