Controversies in Aging: Anticonvulsants for Management of Agitation in Dementia

A common controversy in post-acute and long-term care is the management of agitation associated with dementia. Agitation is a type of behavioral and psychological symptom of dementia characterized by restlessness, aggression, and emotional distress. Nonpharmacologic interventions are widely accepted as the first-line of treatment for managing agitation in dementia. However, when agitation is severe enough to pose a risk to the resident, peer, or care team, medications may be used to alleviate symptoms.