ECNP 2021 | Neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer’s disease

Neuropsychiatric symptoms are recognized as core features of Alzheimer’s disease, varying over time and in severity. João Massano, MD, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal, discusses the burden these symptoms represent, both to patients and caregivers. Apathy is frequently seen in early stages of disease and persists throughout disease course, with depression, aggression, delusions, rummaging, sleep disorders, and hallucinations becoming more common as disease progresses. Many of these symptoms can be difficult to treat and there is a lack of effective pharmacological agents available to Alzheimer’s disease patients. Dr Massano talks on ongoing clinical research to find new approaches to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, as well as the importance of non-pharmacological strategies. This interview took place at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology congress 2021.