First among Equals?

Abstract

Despite various problems associated with the introductionand use of the new generation of drugs for Alzheimer’s disease(cholinesterase inhibitors), expenditure on this aspect of patient care tends to eclipse expenditure on caring and support services. Even though evidence for the effectiveness of many patient-centred approaches is increasingly available, in the UK fixed budgets for various types of service usually means that increased expenditure on medication ensures that support services will inevitably have their funding eroded. Is this the best way to provide effective care for people with dementia? The role of drug companies in this process is examined critically.