 |
 |
Hello again, My 83 year old Dad was taken off the Sinemet because of delusions (not hallucinations) which caused increasing aggression. The periods of delusions usually lasted 2-4 plus hours in the afternoon. Most delusions involved feelings that my mother was an imposter and out to do no good...harm him, steal his money, etc. This type of delusion I'm told is fairly common with dementia. (A few hours later, he is contrite, very sweet, and fears he's going crazy to not have known his wife). He just started taking Serax today. His gerontologist does not prescribe Clozaril because of the dangerous side effects. He leaves that for psychiatrists. He's been off the Sinemet for 2 days now and my Mom notices that he has a little more difficulty getting up and down, holds food in his mouth longer before swallowing, and seems a little weaker. Many of you wrote about using Clozaril after stopping Sinemet. Why did you stop the Sinemet? What symptoms were targeted with the Clozaril? Did it help delusions? Was it mainly for visual hallucinations? Side effects? What checks are needed? Blood tests periodically? Has anyone used risperidone which is safer than Clozaril? My husband (who is an MD) can speak with the neurologist about it, but I'd like to know first hand from people who have experienced it. It's so hard to see one's father going through this. My mom who is 77 years, is caring for him at home. It's hard for her to accept outside help...but I think she's finally convinced. Trouble is Dad also has a colostomy and needs care from someone who knows how to manage that as well as the dementia. Has anyone been in this situation ( i.e. the dementia and meds)? Any suggestions? Thanks for reading. Roni [log in to unmask]