Psychotic Episodes in Alzheimer’s Disease

Abstract

Support: No funding was received in the publication of this article. P sychotic episodes, particularly delusions, hallucinations, agitation, apathy, depression and sleep disturbance are characteristic and harmful effects of Alzheimer’s disease (AD); they are often the first manifestion of the condition and frequently appear before dementia begins. Despite their importance, they are frequently unrecognised and are difficult to treat. There is currently much interest in the mechanisms causing these symptoms, their impact on the disease process and the possibility of new, more effective treatment approaches. In an expert interview, Clive Ballard of Exeter University discusses the current situation of psychosis in AD.