Dementia Drug Mortality Risk Study
Analysis based on 6 articles · First reported Mar 11, 2026 · Last updated Mar 16, 2026
The study by Queen s University Belfast could lead to increased scrutiny and potential changes in prescribing practices for antidepressants like Sertraline, Citalopram, and Fluoxetine, and anti-anxiety drugs such as Diazepam and Lorazepam, particularly for dementia patients. This may negatively impact the pharmaceutical companies producing these medications, while potentially boosting demand for alternative treatments or research into safer options.
A study by Queen s University Belfast has revealed increased mortality risks for individuals with dementia who are prescribed certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. The research, which analyzed data from 28,781 dementia patients in United Kingdom — Northern Ireland over nine years, found an 8% increased mortality risk for those taking antidepressants like Sertraline, Citalopram, and Fluoxetine. A significantly higher risk of 26% was observed for patients using anti-anxiety drugs such as Diazepam and Lorazepam. Dr. Oscar Duke, a BBC health expert, commented on the findings, advising the public not to panic but to consult healthcare professionals. The study's lead authors, Catherine Sinnamon and Heather Barry, emphasized the importance of judicious prescribing and regular medication reviews for dementia patients, given that dementia is a leading cause of death globally with no effective treatment.
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