Agitation in Alzheimer's disease

Manabu Hashimoto

National Hospital Organization Hizen Psychiatric Medical Center

Agitation is present in about half of patients with Alzheimer’s disease （AD） and is the most frequent behavioral psychological symptom （BPSD） in the early stages of AD.　Agitation involves both organic lesions in the cerebrum and psychosocial factors, and tailor-made measures based on individual personality traits even before the onset of AD can help prevent dementia and suppress BPSD.　As for the treatment of agitation, it is important to treat it mainly with various non-pharmacological therapies, rehabilitation, and caregiver support, but also with pharmacotherapy, Neuromodulation, and other therapeutic strategies as needed to maintain the quality of life of AD patients and their caregivers.

Address correspondence to Dr. Manabu Hashimoto, National Hospital Organization Hizen Psychiatric Medical Center（160 Mitsu, Yoshinogari, Kanzaki, Saga 842-0192, Japan）