Olanzapine for the Treatment of Psychosis in Patients With Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia

Abstract

Psychotic symptoms are a common complication in Parkinson's disease with dementia. The authors conducted an open-label 6-week trial of olanzapine preceded by a placebo lead-in in five subjects with Parkinson's disease, mild to moderately severe dementia, and psychosis. Four of the subjects terminated the trial early because of worsening motor function, sedation, or paranoia. There was no improvement in psychotic symptoms, and functional abilities declined significantly. Olanzapine appears to be poorly tolerated in patients with Parkinson's disease, psychotic symptoms, and dementia.