Atypical antipsychotics

Low doses of atypical antipsychotics such as quetiapine, olanzepine or risperidone can be used for agitation, aggression or psychotic behavior. The potential benefit of all antipsychotics must be weighed against the potential risks such as cerebrovascular adverse events and even mortality. Typical antipsychotics are associated with extrapyramidal side effects and usually should be avoided, since patients with FTD are likely to show parkinsonism. Medications for behavioral symptoms should be initiated at a low starting dose and then subsequently titrated slowly based on the patient’s response and the presence of adverse effects.