Antipsychotic Drug Use and Risk of Pneumonia in Elderly People

J Am Geriatr Soc. 2008;56(4):661-666 In conclusion, these results suggest that use of antipsychotics is associated with greater risk of pneumonia in elderly people. The risk is highest shortly after the initiation of the antipsychotic treatment, and the greatest risk is found in users of atypical agents. The results suggest that antipsychotics should not be overlooked as a potential cause of pneumonia, and although the underlying mechanism remains speculative, clinicians may need to monitor patients for swallowing disorders and sedation. At this time, a careful weighing of the possible risks against the benefits is recommended before starting antipsychotic treatment in elderly people.