Off-label antipsychotic use widespread among older adults, study finds
Medical Xpress
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A new study reveals that off-label use of antipsychotic medications is alarmingly common among older adults, according to research conducted in Finland. The University of Oulu and the University of Eastern Finland analyzed a large registry and found that many seniors are prescribed these drugs for conditions not officially approved by regulators. This practice, known as off-label use, involves doctors prescribing antipsychotics for purposes beyond their FDA-approved indications, such as treating sleep disorders, anxiety, or behavioral issues unrelated to mental illness.
The study highlights that antipsychotic medications are often used to manage symptoms in older adults, even though evidence supporting their effectiveness for these off-label uses is limited. For instance, these drugs are frequently prescribed to address agitation, aggression, or sleep disturbances in elderly patients with conditions like dementia or chronic pain. However, the researchers emphasize that this widespread practice raises concerns about potential risks and lack of regulatory oversight.
Off-label prescribing of antipsychotics can lead to serious side effects, including sedation, falls, and cardiovascular issues, which are particularly dangerous for older adults. The study underscores the need for greater scrutiny of these practices and better guidelines for healthcare providers to ensure patient safety. Additionally, it calls for more research into alternative treatments and non-pharmacological approaches to address the symptoms being targeted.
This issue is significant because off-label drug use reflects broader trends in healthcare where medications are repurposed without sufficient evidence. For patients and families, this raises questions about the benefits versus risks of such treatments and highlights the importance of informed decision-making. The findings also stress the need for improved communication between doctors and patients to discuss potential
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/23/2026