Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementias

doi:10.1017/9781108985055.003

Chapter 3 - Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementias

from Section 1 - Introductory Chapters on Dementia

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 17 November 2025

Yavuz Ayhan and

Bruce L. Miller

Edited by

Bruce L. Miller and

Bradley F. Boeve

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Bruce L. Miller: Affiliation:
University of California, San Francisco
Bradley F. Boeve: Affiliation:
Mayo Clinic, Minnesota

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Summary

Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are prevalent in dementia and can include depression, anxiety, agitation, aggression, disinhibition, apathy, psychosis, compulsions, eating disorders, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms can occur at different stages of the disease and vary in frequency and severity between different types of dementia. The underlying pathology of each disease can affect different brain structures, leading to overlapping symptoms and syndromes. Treatment options for NPS are limited and often based on trial and error. Nonpharmacological interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and lifestyle modifications, can be effective in some cases. Pharmacological interventions, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and stimulants, may also be used, but their efficacy is variable, and they can have side effects. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms of NPS in dementia and to develop more effective treatment strategies.

Keywords

neuropsychiatric symptoms dementias depression anxiety agitation psychosis disinhibition apathy compulsions sleep disturbances

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Type: Chapter
Information: The Behavioral Neurology of Dementia , pp. 20 - 41

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108985055.003 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2025

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