Opioid use among dementia patients has been linked to a higher risk of death, especially within the first two weeks of starting the medication, according to new research presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference. The study, conducted in Denmark, found that among Alzheimer’s patients aged 65 and older who took opioids over a 10-year period, a third of them died within 180 days of starting the medication. The risk of death for these patients was approximately five times higher compared to those who did not take opioids. However, within the first two weeks, the risk increased to 11 times higher.
The study also noted that the risk of death was particularly high for patients who used fentanyl patches, with nearly two-thirds of them dying within 180 days. Furthermore, the use of strong opioids such as morphine, oxycodone, and fentanyl was associated with a six times higher risk of death compared to dementia patients who did not take these medications.
Dr. Christina Jensen-Dahm of the Neurology Department at Copenhagen University Hospital expressed concern about the findings, stating that the use of opioids among dementia patients has increased significantly in the past decade. She emphasized the importance of evaluating the risks and benefits before initiating opioid therapy in elderly individuals with dementia.
Experts are urging caution when prescribing opioids to dementia patients due to the elevated mortality risk. They also emphasize the need for safe pain management in this vulnerable population. Dr. Nicole Purcell, a neurologist and senior director of clinical practice at the Alzheimer’s Association, highlighted the importance of communication between patients, families, and physicians to make informed decisions about pain medication. She also emphasized the need for careful monitoring of patients who do receive opioids.
The reasons behind the increased death risk for dementia patients using opioids are not yet fully understood. However, it is speculated that these patients may be less able to tolerate the side effects of opioids, such as sedation, confusion, respiratory depression, and falls. More research is needed to determine the precise mechanisms involved.
The study also mentioned that medications used to treat psychiatric conditions, known as atypical antipsychotics, have been found to increase the mortality risk for older dementia patients.
Overall, this research contributes to the growing concern surrounding opioid use among dementia patients. Further investigation is necessary to fully understand the risks and develop strategies for safe pain management in this population.