Zyprexa and Risperdal linked to 3 fold increase in Stroke (elderly/dementia)

March 9, 2004

Britain warns of stroke risk with Zyprexa and Risperdal

Reuters, 03.09.04, 10:02 AM ET

LONDON, March 9 (Reuters) - Eli Lilly's and

& 's drugs Zyprexa and Risperdal should not

be used to treat behavioural problems in older patients with

dementia because of

the risk of stroke, British authorities said on Tuesday.

A safety committee review found there was around a three-fold

increase in the

risk of stroke when the medicines were used in this patient group,

the

Department of Health said in a statement.

Both drugs are licensed to treat acute psychosis and schizophrenia,

but they are

also prescribed " off label " to treat behavioural problems in older

people with

dementia and clinical trials show some evidence of benefit to

patients.

The health department said approximately 30,000 patients aged 65 and

over

received Risperdal and 9,000 Zyprexa in the UK last year for the

treatment of

dementia.

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