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Medication for Sundowners Syndrome

Elderly people with some form of dementia may experience Sundowners Syndrome, which may also be referred to as sundowning. A physician can help determine which types of medication may be appropriate for treating individual cases of Sundowners Syndrome.

  1. Definition

    • Sundowners Syndrome refers to a worsening of dementia symptoms in the evening. The diminished light of sunset may make the unfamiliar surroundings of a hospital even more disorienting for those with dementia. According to SundownerFacts.com, the accumulated stress of the day may also contribute to Sundowners Syndrome.

    Antidepresssants

    • Antidepressant drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may relieve depression associated with Sundowners Syndrome. SSRIs include Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft.

    Mood Stabilizer

    • A mood stabilizer, such as lithium or valproic acid, may be prescribed to treat cases of Sundowners Syndrome that involve aggressive or agitated behavior.

    Benzodiazepines

    • A doctor may prescribe a benzodiazepine medication, such as Xanax, Ativan and Valium to treat Sundowners Syndrome that causes anxiety. According to MedicineNet.com, side effects of benzodiazepines may include memory loss and depression.

    Cholinesterase Inhibitors

    • Aricept, Exelon and Razadyne are cholinesterase inhibitors prescribed for the treatment of various forms of dementia. According to MayoClinic.com, these drugs may improve memory and cognitive functioning.

    Haldol

    • According to Dr. James Fanale of Mercy Medical Center and the Sisters of Providence Health System quoted in a 2005 article from HealthCareNews.com, Haldol, an anti-psychotic drug, may treat some cases of Sundowners Syndrome.

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