Utilization of Drugs in Patients With Major Neurocognitive Disorder

Major neurocognitive disorder (MNCD), previously called dementia, includes diseases like Alzheimer disease. MNCD prevalence is low in those younger than aged 65 years but rises sharply with age. MNCD diagnoses in the older adult population significantly grew in Canada over the past 15 years.

Treatments like acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and memantine help manage Alzheimer disease symptoms. However, their use must be carefully managed to avoid risks outweighing benefits. Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia are treated with antipsychotics and anxiolytics, though these can increase mortality and risks of cognitive impairment. There are efforts across the country to optimize medication use in patients with MNCD, focusing on inappropriate medication use in those aged 65 years and older.

This project will compare drug utilization patterns over time, across regions, and in various subgroups of patients with MNCD to improve pharmacological care quality. Its objectives include establishing the epidemiology of MNCD and measuring relevant indicators using health administrative databases.

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